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Man arrested after four ‘gruesome’ rapes in Manchester city centre

A man has been arrested in connection with four “gruesome” rapes in Manchester city centre. Police believe the suspect “targeted drunk men and women” before raping them and stealing their personal belongings.

The four incidents were reported in February this year and Greater Manchester Police launched an investigation. A suspect, a man in his 40s, was arrested on Sunday morning (July 21).



He remains in custody and is being questioned by detectives. All four victims are being assisted by specialist officers.

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Detective Superintendent Richard Hunt, head of the Rape and Other Sexual Offences Unit, said: “Our specialist officers have supported and continue to support those involved in these incidents. We are doing everything we can to provide them with the appropriate care they need during this time.”

Where can you turn if you are a victim of rape or sexual abuse?

– Saint Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester provides comprehensive and coordinated support for men, women and children living in or who have been victims of sexual assault in Greater Manchester. It offers forensic medical assessments, practical and emotional support and a counselling service for all ages. Services are available 24 hours a day and can be contacted on 0161 276 6515.

– Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and advice service run by women for women over the age of 18 who have been raped or sexually assaulted at some point in their lives. Call 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]

– 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 if you need help.

– Always call 999 in an emergency

“These are truly horrific crimes and no one should feel unsafe walking the streets of Greater Manchester. We remain committed to bringing justice to all rape victims and we will not tolerate any form of sexual violence in our communities.

“We urge anyone who has experienced sexual violence or abuse to come forward and report it to us. Every report will be thoroughly investigated and we will ensure you and your loved ones are fully supported every step of the way in our journey to justice.”

If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, report it to the police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.