Authorities probing the rape of a UK-born Sikh woman in a racially motivated assault in the region have made a new appeal for information from the community as a man taken into custody in the case has been granted bail.
Key Information of the Attack
The woman, who is in her twenties, reported she was assaulted by two individuals while on her way to work in the area on the early hours of September 9.
According to Sikh organizations, the assailants allegedly said to her: “This isn’t your place in this country, get out,” during the assault, which occurred between 8am and 8.30am.
Latest Developments
A suspect in his thirties, detained on the weekend on charges related to rape, has been bailed awaiting further inquiries, police confirmed.
Officers are continuing to appeal for details about the incident, which is being treated as “racially motivated.”
The woman is being supported by specialist staff, while investigators examine hundreds of hours of CCTV and conduct forensic inquiries.
Call for Information
Detectives are urging anyone who noticed two individuals in the area to come forward. Descriptions of the suspects include:
- One man with a bald head, large physique, seen in gloves and a dark coloured hoodie.
- The other wearing a gray shirt with a silver zip.
Senior Officer Kim Madill stated: “Our efforts include closely with key partners and we absolutely understand the concern of residents.
“We need the public’s help to bring us information on who carried out this horrendous attack. Be assured that we are doing all we can to hold those responsible to justice.”
Reactions and Vigil
A large number of people attended a vigil on Tuesday evening to show solidarity with the woman.
One of the organizers commented: “We feel that there’s been a rise in racial hostility and we are calling for togetherness.”
The victim has released a message expressing gratitude to the community for its “kindness and solidarity.”
She added: “No one should experience this on anyone. All I was doing going about my day on my way to work, and what has happened have profoundly impacted us.
“Through it all, my family has been my support system and my community has stood strong beside me.”
