Shock has spread across Southampton after a 19-year-old woman was sexually assaulted in Hoglands Park during the early hours of Saturday, 11 March.
The incident occurred at around 1:30am when the young woman was walking through the park. A man she did not know approached her, began talking, and then grabbed and sexually assaulted her over her clothes before fleeing on foot.
The suspect is described as having an Asian or Arabic appearance, approximately 5ft 6ins tall, with an average build, short black hair, and a moustache. He was wearing a distinctive patterned yellow jacket at the time of the attack.
Detective Inspector Joanne Beresford commented on the case: “This incident was understandably very distressing for the young woman involved, and we know that this will also cause additional concern for the wider community who use these public spaces in the city. We are investigating this incident thoroughly, gathering CCTV footage and supporting the victim closely. Uniformed officers will patrol the area, especially late in the evening, over the weekend. If you have any concerns, please speak to them.”
She added, “We have a clear description of the attacker. Anyone who saw a man matching this description or had contact with him that night should contact police.”
Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward. If you have any details, please contact police on 101 quoting reference 44230097892. Reports can also be made online at https://orlo.uk/oMSTZ. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via their online form at https://orlo.uk/fRfYf.
Originally published by UKNIP.
