The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Manhunt for predator who raped 83-year-old
POLICE: Investigators urge citizens to keep doors and windows secured after ‘abhorrent’ assault
Police are hunting a rapist who preyed on an 83-year-old woman at her home in Glenrothes.
The intruder forced his way into the pensioner’s property before carrying out the “abhorrent” assault.
The victim was said to have been left extremely distressed.
A manhunt is now under way, with a large police presence expected to remain in the town’s Collydean area for some time.
Investigators have urged people to stay alert, and keep their windows closed – despite soaring temperatures.
Detective Chief Inspector John Anderson of Fife CID said: “I would ask people to make sure their homes are as secure as possible at all times, including making sure all doors and windows are locked, particularly during the hot weather that we are experiencing when they may be tempted to leave a window open.”
An 83-year-old woman has been raped in her Glenrothes home by a man who broke into the property.
The incident happened at 5am yesterday morning when an intruder dressed in dark clothing entered the property in Meldrum Court.
Police said she was left extremely distressed during the “abhorrent” assault.
A major investigation has been launched and locals have been told to expect a visible police presence in the Collydean area of the town while inquiries continue.
Detective Chief Inspector John Anderson of Fife CID warned people to keep all doors and windows locked in the meantime.
“This was an abhorrent act and extensive inquiries are now ongoing to identify the individual responsible,” he said.
“We are exploring all possible lines of inquiry, including careful study of available CCTV.
“I would ask people to make sure their homes are as secure as possible at all times, including making sure all doors and windows are locked, particularly during the hot weather that we are experiencing when they may be tempted to leave a window open.”
Meanwhile, a manhunt has been launched in Kirkcaldy after two young women were subjected to a sinister indecent exposure at a popular walking spot.
Police dog handlers were seen patrolling the Rabbit Braes area of town on Wednesday evening following the incident, which happened at Longbraes at around 4.45pm.
The teenagers, aged 15 and 16, were having a picnic on the hillside when they saw a bald man sitting around 10 metres away from them, acting suspiciously.
Around 10 minutes later, the man is said to have walked past them wearing nothing but brown walking shoes, white trainer socks and a balaclava. He then went on to touch his private parts.
One of the girls managed to take a photo and some video before he noticed he was being filmed, at which point he ran down the grassy bank towards a wooded area and picked up a small pile of clothes, before fleeing the scene.
The man was around 5ft 10in, medium build and balding and in his late 20s to mid 30s.
He was wearing black or darkcoloured clothes and brown walking shoes.