Man, 44, arrested over terrifying street sex attack on woman in busy area

A man has been arrested after a woman was reportedly sexually assaulted in an area popular with students in south Manchester.

The terrifying incident was reported to police yesterday (September 18). A woman was reportedly sexually assaulted on busy Wilmslow Road in Fallowfield at around 3.20pm.

Police said an investigation was launched by local officers 'immediately'. A 44-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.

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He has been taken into custody to be quizzed by detectives. In a statement, Detective Sergeant Emma Cochrane at Greater Manchester Police said: "We take all reports of sexual assault incredibly seriously, and got to work straight away in our efforts to find the person responsible in this case.

"I hope this quick arrest demonstrates our commitment to protecting our communities from those who seek to harm them, and to protecting women and girls on our streets. I would urge anyone who has been the victim of a sexual assault to please get in touch with us. You will be listened to and your welfare will be our top priority.

"You can report anything to police via 101 or gmp.police.uk. If you feel more comfortable, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Where to go if you've been affected by rape or sexual assault

- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live, or have been sexually assaulted, within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk

- We Are Survivors provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182 for help.

- Always call 999 in an emergency

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