Detectives investigating a serious sexual offence that occurred in Liverpool city centre in August are appealing for a hackney cab driver to come forward with any information that may assist ongoing enquiries.
The incident was reported to the police on August 26 at approximately 05:30 on Fleet Street. The victim, an 18-year-old woman, is currently receiving support from specially trained officers belonging to the Unity Team, dedicated to investigating such offences.
A 34-year-old man from Liverpool has been arrested on suspicion of rape and possession of a controlled Class B drug (cannabis). However, the investigation remains ongoing, and authorities believe that the hackney cab driver who picked up the victim and her friend near Lloyds bank on Hannover Street, approximately 30 minutes after the reported incident, may have crucial information.
Detective Inspector Leanne Toole stated, “Although we have made an arrest, we are urging the hackney cab driver to please come forward, as we believe he may have valuable information to assist our ongoing enquiries. If you recall picking up these individuals, your cooperation could be instrumental in helping us determine what exactly transpired.”
Acknowledging the concern that incidents like these generate within the community, Inspector Toole reassured the public that a thorough investigation is taking place to establish the facts surrounding the incident. Merseyside Police are urging anyone holding relevant information, including CCTV or mobile phone/dashcam footage from the early hours of August 26, to contact them promptly.
If you possess any information that could aid the investigation, please reach out through direct message (@MerPolCC), ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 23000802204.
