A SUSPECTED sex attacker is in custody as police are searching for a specific potential witness that could help in a rape investigation.
Thames Valley Police is searching for a dogwalker who may have key information relating to a rape of a woman in Reading on Wednesday, May 29.
The victim, a woman aged in her twenties, was on Argyle Road, between the Rose and Thistle public house and the junction of Lorne Street. She was approached from behind by a man who pushed her to the floor where she was then raped.
A police cordon has been in place at the scene which taped off a large area including the Rose and Thistle pub, which has had to close while investigations are ongoing. However police confirmed the pub is not linked to the incident.
The sex attack occurred on Argyle Road between 10.30pm and 11pm on Wednesday (29/5).
A 26-year-old man from Reading has been arrested on suspicion of rape of a woman over 16. He remains in police custody at this time.
Thames Valley Police is now appealing to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area at the time, and specifically want to speak with a potential dogwalker witness.
Investigating officer, Detective Inspector Stuart Streeter said: “We are particularly interested to trace a potential witness to this incident, who is described as a man with grey hair, and was walking a cream coloured Labrador-type dog around the time of the incident.
“I am urging this individual to please get in touch with Thames Valley Police, either by contacting us online via our website or by calling 101, quoting reference 43240251986.
“I am also again urging anybody who believes that they witnessed this incident or any suspicious activity in the area of Argyle Road to please get in touch with us."
The force are continuing to investigate the incident and said the victim is being supported by specially trained officers.
Adding: “I know that incidents such as this cause a great deal of concern, but I would like to reassure the local community that we have made an arrest and we do believe this to have been an isolated incident.
“I would like to thank those who have already come forward with information. We are investigating this incident as a priority, and we will provide updates when we are able to.”
For 100% anonymity, anyone with information can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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