32-Year-Old Man Arrested for Racially Motivated Sexual Assault of Indian-Origin Woman in UK

New Delhi:

Authorities have detained a 32-year-old man in connection with what police describe as a 'racially aggravated' sexual assault of a 20-year-old woman of Indian heritage in Walsall, northern England, which occurred Saturday evening.

Law enforcement officials in the UK stated that the suspect, described as a Caucasian male with short hair wearing dark attire, was apprehended following an extensive search operation that began with the public release of CCTV surveillance footage.

Detective Superintendent Ronan Tyrer, leading the investigation, called the arrest a "significant development," particularly in light of another recent sexual assault involving a British Sikh woman in Oldbury, located less than 20 kilometers from Walsall, last month. According to BBC reports from last week, two individuals aged 49 and 65 were previously arrested in connection with that incident but have since been released on bail.

DS Tyrer confirmed that the victim has been informed of the arrest. "Our investigation continues to progress, and our primary concern remains the woman who experienced this attack. She has received updates and will continue to be supported by specially trained officers throughout this process."

"At present, we are not connecting this incident to any other attacks," he added.

The Sikh Federation UK has identified the victim as being of Punjabi heritage.

These consecutive assaults have prompted a strong reaction from Preet Kaur Gill, a member of the Sikh community and Labour and Co-operative MP representing the West Midlands region where these incidents occurred. She expressed being "deeply shocked" by the Walsall assault.

"The recurring pattern of violence against women in our area, compounded by elements of hate and racial motivation, is profoundly concerning," she stated on the social media platform X.

Chief Superintendent Phil Dolby of Walsall Police emphasized that his team's priority is supporting the investigation to identify and apprehend the perpetrator.

"Walsall represents a diverse community, and we recognize the fear and apprehension this horrific attack has caused among residents. We have engaged with community members today to hear and understand their concerns, and there will be enhanced police presence in the area over the coming days," he stated.

With additional information from news agencies