Fake taxi driver in ‘horrific’ sex attack
WOMAN DRAGGED INTO BUSHES NEAR SITE OF MUSIC FESTIVAL
A WOMAN was dragged into bushes by a phoney taxi driver who attempted to sexually assault her.
The man approached the victim near Platt Fields Park on Wilmslow Road in Fallowfield on Saturday night.
He followed her before he grabbed her and pulled her into the trees, police said.
She managed to raise the alarm with passers-by about the terrifying attack, which happened at around 11.15pm. The man ran away from the scene in the direction of Yew Tree
Road. Police are now hunting him down. He is described as being Asian and aged in his 30s. He has short, dark cropped hair with a short, dark full beard and was wearing a black coat.
Officers investigating the incident remain at the scene, where the Flashback Festival music event was also held yesterday.
Police said patrols have been stepped up in the area. Detective Chief Inspector Anthony Norman, from GMP’s City of Manchester division, said: “We’re aware this will no doubt raise concerns in the community and those who attended the music event nearby but I would like to reassure them that we have a number officers carrying out an investigation.
“This was a horrific attack on a woman who thankfully managed to raise the alarm but has been left extremely shook up and is receiving the support she needs. We have increased patrols in the area in response to this incident.
“No woman should have such an incident happen to them and all women should feel safe which is why violence against women and girls is one of GMP’s top priorities.
“A team of detectives are currently pursuing all immediate lines of enquiry and we’re now appealing to the public to come forward with any information that may assist us. We want to bring the man responsible to justice and we can do this by hearing from anyone who may have information.
“Anyone with information or may have seen the male described is asked to report it to us by calling 0161 856 6051 or report it online or via LiveChat www.gmp.police.uk. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers.”
No woman should have such an incident happen to them and all women should feel safe. DCI Anthony Norman