Woman Seriously Sexually Attacked In Co Tyrone

A woman has been seriously sexually assaulted in Dungannon, Co Tyrone.

The attack happened in the Peatlands Park area on Wednesday afternoon, 27 April.

The victim was walking her dog when she was assaulted by a man who fled the scene in a black mountain bike.

The man is described as being aged in his 20's, around 6ft tall, clean shaven, with a chubby face, and droopy eyes. He was wearing all black clothing, a high visibility jacket and a cycling helmet.

Detective Inspector Lynne Knox said: "This was an appalling attack and police are pursuing all investigative lines of enquiry and I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed this assault or observed anything suspicious to contact Detectives at the Rape Crime Unit on the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Ulster Unionist Upper Bann candidate, Doug Beattie MC, said: "My thoughts are with the victim at this very traumatic time.

"The entire community will be united in its disgust at the news that a woman should be the victim of such a brutal assault. The fact that it took place in broad daylight and in a park which is widely used by families serves to compound the horror.

"The police have said that the attacker fled the scene on a black mountain bike and have appealed for anyone who can assist them to come forward immediately. I would echo that call. This is clearly a very dangerous individual who must be caught immediately and put behind bars where he can no longer pose a threat to women."

(CD)