Appeal after woman raped by Muslim in Sunderland

Police are appealing for information after a woman was raped in Sunderland.

The incident happened between 4.30pm and 5.30pm in the evening on Monday, September 22, in Mowbray Park in the city centre.

The woman, aged in her 40s, was in the park when she was approached by a man who attacked her. He is described as Asian, aged in his 20s.

Officers are carrying out enquiries into the attack and are appealing for any witnesses and anyone who was in the park on Monday evening to contact them. In particular, it's thought a man, who had a beard, and a woman, were walking in the park and officers are keen to speak to them as potential witnesses.

Police are carrying out extra patrols throughout the park and surrounding area.

Neighbourhood Inspector Mick Hall, said: "Incidents such as this can have a devastating effect on victims and we have specially trained officers working with the victim to make sure she has the support she needs at such a distressing time.

"We also know that these incidents can be concerning to the local community and officers will be carrying out extra patrols throughout the park and surrounding area.

"If anyone was in the park on Monday evening I would urge them to contact us as they may have information that can help with our enquiries, no matter how insignificant it seems it could prove to be crucial in helping us to identify and catch the offender.

"If anyone saw anything that seemed out of the ordinary, or a man acting suspiciously, we would ask they speak to us."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101 ext 69191 quoting reference 1287 220914 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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