A 6-year-old girl in the UK was sexually assaulted by a stranger who grabbed her while she was playing in the street. Sussex Police said the incident took place around 5pm on Monday in an open area in Timberleys.
According to Mirror, the child was reportedly approached by an unidentified man while she was playing in a street in Littlehampton in West Sussex, England. The suspect allegedly grabbed her and pushed her into some nearby bushes where he tried to sexually force himself on her. Officers believe the man was distracted by the child’s relatives calling out to her and ran off in a minute after forcing her into the bushes.
The girl, who has not been named, was physically unharmed and ran back to her relatives. She and her family have been handed over in the care and support of specially trained officers to deal with the horrifying ordeal.
Police are desperately hunting down the offender and are appealing for information on the incident. "If you witnessed the incident or have any other information, please contact us either online or by ringing 101, quoting Operation Assertive,” Chief Inspector Jon Carter, Arun and Chichester District Commander said.
The suspected offender was described to be a black man in his 40s with short dark hair. He was wearing a blue/grey rain jacket and a black shirt underneath.
Carter said they are carrying out a detailed investigation into the concerning incident, emphasizing that it is an isolated report as there have been no other similar incidents in the area. "I recognise the concern that incidents like this will cause parents in the area. The investigation is being pursued quickly and rigorously, and local officers will be conducting increased patrols,” he assured residents.
"The motive for this isolated incident is not clear at present and we have been in the area seeking to establish the circumstances and contact any witnesses, “ the Chief Inspector added.
Meanwhile, police officers have arrested a 35-year-old man in Littlehampton on Tuesday evening. The man was apprehended on suspicion of child abduction, sexual assault and a separate common assault. He is currently detained and in the custody of authorities pending interview and enquiries.
