Police launch investigation after woman seriously assaulted in Hyde
The woman was approached from behind before being sexually assaulted
Last updated 6th Jul 2024
Greater Manchester Police have appealed for information and witnesses following a serious sexual assault in Hyde.
A woman was walking along Grafton Street in the centre of the Tameside town at around 6:40 p.m. on Friday morning (July 5th).
Following this, a man approached the woman from behind and reportedly sexually assaulted her, forcing her to a nearby patch of grass.
Soon after the incident, the woman phoned emergency services to report the incident. She is currently being seen to by specialist officers to ensure her safety and well-being.
Speaking about the case, Detective Chief Inspector Abdul Khar from the Tameside district of Greater Manchester Police said that the woman is receiving as much care and support as she needs.
"This is a truly horrific crime and we are determined to bring the person responsible to justice – no woman should feel unsafe when walking the streets of Greater Manchester, and we are committed to doing everything we possibly can to progress this investigation at pace," he said.
"The local community will see an increased police presence in and around the area and I would encourage members of the public to approach our officers if they have any additional concerns."
Investigations into the assault are now underway and police are now asking to speak to a man in relation to their investigations.
The man has been described by investigators as being in his 20s, white and having light-coloured facial hair, as well as a slim build.
As well as this, the force are keen to speak to anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the assault, including in the nearby areas of the local bus station and the footbridge.
Anyone with dashcam or doorbell footage close to the area at the time of the incident is being urged to get in touch as soon as possible.
"I would like to appeal to anyone with information to please get in touch with officers," DCI Khar added. "In particular, if you were around the area at the time of the incident and saw anything whether it looked suspicious, unusual or out of place."
"Please contact us as your help could prove to be extremely useful. No matter how big or small it may seem, all information is hugely beneficial."
Those who may have any relevant information can get in touch with the force by dialling 101 and quoting incident reference number 479 from July 5th.