WALSALL, England, Oct 27 — A 20-year-old Indian-origin woman is recovering after being raped in what British authorities are treating as a racially aggravated attack, West Midlands Police said on Monday.
The assault occurred on Saturday evening in Walsall’s Park Hall area, where officers responded to reports of a distressed woman. Upon entering a nearby property, they found that she had been sexually assaulted by a man she did not know.
Detectives said the suspect is believed to be a white man in his 30s, with short hair, wearing dark clothing. CCTV footage showing the man has been released as part of a public appeal for information.
“This was an absolutely appalling attack on a young woman, and we are doing everything possible to bring the perpetrator to justice,” said Detective Superintendent Ronan Tyrer of West Midlands Police. “While multiple lines of enquiry are underway, we need to hear from anyone who may have seen a man acting suspiciously in the area that evening.”
Community groups have voiced deep concern over what they described as an ethnically motivated crime. The Sikh Federation UK, citing local sources, said the victim is a Punjabi woman. “The attacker reportedly forced entry into the house where she was staying,” the group said. “West Midlands Police have now had two racially aggravated rapes of young women in their 20s in the past two months, and urgent steps must be taken to catch those responsible.”
Chief Superintendent Phil Dolby of Walsall Police said officers are working closely with local residents to address concerns. “Walsall is a diverse community, and we understand the fear and anxiety this horrific attack has caused,” he noted, adding that police patrols in the area have been strengthened.
Investigators said the “racially aggravated” classification indicates that racial or ethnic hostility may have been a factor, though the full motive remains under review. Anyone with information has been urged to contact West Midlands Police via 101 or live chat, quoting log number 4027 of October 25.
The investigation remains ongoing.
