Detectives in Rochdale are appealing for information after two women reported being sexually assaulted in separate incidents in local parks in the early hours of Saturday.
Reports from two parks
Greater Manchester Police said the first call came at 06:15 BST reporting that a woman had been sexually assaulted in Broadfield Park, Rochdale. A second report was received at 08:38 BST concerning a woman who said she had been sexually assaulted in Milnrow Memorial Park.
Police said both women told officers they did not know the man involved and provided a similar description, leading detectives to consider the incidents may be connected.
Suspect description and CCTV sighting
Officers described the man as a black male who appeared to be wearing a three-piece suit or smart black clothes with a dark coat and carrying a briefcase. CCTV footage has been identified showing a man matching that description inside the Ko-Ko Lounge in Rochdale town centre; he was seen leaving the venue at about 05:00 BST on Saturday.
"Detectives are pursuing a number of lines of enquiry and we are committed to identifying whoever is responsible and bringing them to justice."
The force has asked anyone who may have seen a man matching this description to come forward, and it is appealing for any CCTV, doorbell, dashcam or mobile phone footage from the town centre, Broadfield Park or Milnrow Memorial Park areas.
Local policing response
Detective Chief Inspector Thomas Willis said investigators were actively following up a number of lines of enquiry. The force warned there would be an increased police presence in the areas involved while enquiries continue.
- Two incidents reported: Broadfield Park (06:15 BST) and Milnrow Memorial Park (08:38 BST).
- Both victims said they did not know the suspect and provided similar descriptions.
- Man of interest seen on CCTV leaving Ko-Ko Lounge at about 05:00 BST.
- Police request any related footage or witness accounts.
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 05:00 BST | Man matching description seen leaving Ko-Ko Lounge (CCTV) |
| 06:15 BST | Report of sexual assault at Broadfield Park |
| 08:38 BST | Report of sexual assault at Milnrow Memorial Park |
Both victims are being supported by specialist officers, the force added. Anyone with information is asked to contact Greater Manchester Police quoting incident number 2268 of Saturday, or to call 101. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers.
This investigation remains ongoing and further updates will be issued by the force as enquiries progress.
