Greater Manchester Police have arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of two counts of attempted rape following separate incidents in Rochdale parks in the early hours of Saturday.
Incidents and arrest
Officers were called after two women reported being sexually assaulted in different public parks. The first call came at about 06:15 BST, reporting an assault in Broadfield Park. A second report was received at around 08:38 BST concerning an assault in Milnrow Memorial Park.
Police said the two women provided similar descriptions of the man involved. Investigators identified CCTV footage showing a person matching that description leaving the Ko-Ko Lounge in Rochdale town centre at about 05:00 BST. A man in his 20s was subsequently arrested and remains in custody for questioning while enquiries continue.
Police response and support for victims
Specialist officers are supporting both victims. Greater Manchester Police said officers will maintain a visible presence in the parks and town centre while enquiries progress.
"You will see an increased police presence in Broadfield Park, Milnrow Memorial Park and Rochdale town centre over the coming days and throughout this evening."
The force added that the arrested man is being questioned in custody and that detectives are following lines of enquiry. Members of the public with information are being asked to contact GMP.
What we know so far
- Two sexual assaults were reported in Rochdale parks on Saturday morning.
- Incidents occurred at Broadfield Park (06:15) and Milnrow Memorial Park (08:38).
- A man in his 20s was arrested after CCTV placed a person matching the description in the town centre around 05:00.
- Victims are being supported by specialist officers; the suspect remains in custody for questioning.
Quick reference
| Time (BST) | Location | Event |
|---|---|---|
| 05:00 | Rochdale town centre (Ko-Ko Lounge area) | CCTV shows person matching description |
| 06:15 | Broadfield Park | Report of sexual assault |
| 08:38 | Milnrow Memorial Park | Report of sexual assault |
Detectives have asked anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the areas, or who has dashcam or mobile footage, to contact Greater Manchester Police. Members of the public can call 101 quoting incident numbers provided by the force, or pass anonymous information to Crimestoppers. Police have said enquiries are ongoing and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Rochdale residents are likely to notice increased patrols in and around the parks and town centre over the coming days as officers work to establish the full circumstances surrounding these reports.
