Blackpool rape: Two women come forward following police appeal

Two women police wanted to trace as they investigate the rape of a 20-year-old woman in Blackpool have now come forward.
Police scene of crime tape at the locationPolice scene of crime tape at the location
Police scene of crime tape at the location

Police thanked the women - and other members of the public, too - after they launched an appeal.

However they are still appealing to anyone else who may have information which could assist. their inquiries to get in touch.

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The rape victim was subjected to a 'horrific' attack, said police, which included violent assault.

Two men have been arrested.

The incident happened at about 10.30pm on Thursday, April 23 when the woman, was approached by a man and taken into an alleyway off Hopton Road at the side of the Home Bargains Store on Tyldesley Road in Blackpool central.

The offender then subjected the victim to a serious sexual assault before violently assaulting her as she lay on the ground.

He then made off from the scene taking items of the victim’s property with him.

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The victim made her way home and reported what had happened.

She is being supported by specially trained officers.

Blackpool CID have arrested two men in connection with this offence, a 30-year-old from the Midlands and a 19-year-old local man.

Both remain in custody and are being interviewed by detectives.

Det Chief Inspector Lee Wilson, of West Police, said: “This is a horrific offence leaving the young victim with significant physical and undoubtedly mental injuries. She is understandably extremely distressed.

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“I would like to thank the two ladies for coming forward and I would continue to appeal to anyone else who may be able to help us

“Thankfully offences like this are rare. It is vitally important for the safety of other women that the offenders are identified and brought to justice and to that end we have a dedicated team of detectives carrying out enquiries to identify the offender and get justice for the victim.

“There are extra patrols in the area and you can always approach an officer if you have any information or concerns.

"We understand people may be reluctant to come forward during this time especially if they have not been following the government guidelines about staying at home but I would reassure them that our immediate concern is to find out what happened and I would urge anyone who has any information, no matter how insignificant they may feel it to be, to come forward and speak to us.

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“While we have made two arrests our enquiries are very much ongoing.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101 quoting log 1557 of April 23, or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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