Witness appeal launched after two women sexually assaulted in Southampton

Officers investigating a sexual assault in Southampton are keen to speak to two people, who they believe may hold vital information, following the incident in the early hours of Saturday morning (8 October).

It comes after two women were approached by an unknown man on West Marlands Road – near the junction of Commercial Road - at around 4.25am on Saturday 8 October.

The man stopped and engaged the two women in conversation, initially asking for directions, before he sexually assaulting them.

The women fought off their attacker before he fled the scene towards Watts Park.

He was described as being Asian, mid 20s, approximately 5ft 9ins tall, stocky build, black hair which was short on the sides and long on the top, whilst also having stubble on his face. The man was seen wearing a black top, blue jeans and carrying a mobile phone.

Two men who were passing at the time of the incident gave chase to the suspect through the park.

Detective Constable Rhys McDonnell, said: “Our officers have carried out initial enquiries in the local area to identify the suspect and we are really keen to identify and speak to those two men who chased the man away from the scene. They may hold really important information which could aid our ongoing investigation.

“Likewise, we would like to hear from a man who may have witnessed the assault and spoken to the offender immediately after the incident.

“Is this you? If so, we would implore you to come forward and speak with us. It could prove vital in bringing the offender to justice.

“We would like to reassure local residents that there is no perceived risk to the wider community – it is believed that this was an isolated incident.

“Local officers will be conducting routine patrols in the area following the incident.”

Anyone with information, dash-cam or CCTV footage relating to this incident is asked to call 101, quoting crime reference number 44220410795.

Alternatively you can contact independent charity, Crimestoppers, anonymously via their website or by calling 0800 555 111.