Improved security after womansexually assaulted while walking dog

A meeting was held with local community representatives, councillors and the police following concerns about anti-social and criminal behaviour in the area.

And last week it emerged that a middle aged woman had been seriously assaulted in the area on Tuesday April 24 while out walking her dog. Details were only released last Friday.

At approximately 10.15pm, the woman was walking her dog in the area of the football pitch when she was approached by an unknown male and assaulted.

The attacker is described as being approximately 6’ tall, of muscular build, with dark hair and spoke with a foreign accent.

Lagan Valley MLA Jonathan Craig, who is also a member of the Policing Board, said he had met with concerned residents about security issues in the area.

“I meet with council officers, PSNI and residents living behind the park to discuss not only anti- social behaviour but general security issues around the park,” explained Mr Craig. “Following the meeting it was agreed the undergrowth and branches low down on the boundary would be cleared away to ensure visibility over the pitches and reduce the likelihood of any further potential attacks on the vulnerable.”

Mr Craig said he was shocked by the attack and appealed for anyone with information to contact the police.

“I know the PSNI will deal with this crime both sensitively for the individual involved but will also leave no stone unturned when it comes to catching the criminal or criminals behind this vile crime,” he said.

“I appeal to the public to fully co-operate with the PSNI on this issue and pass on any information they have no matter how insignificant they believe it to be.

“I hope and pray that with the help of the public and the measures we have discussed it will improve safety on the pitches and ultimately will bring whoever carried this evil crime out to justice, and I send my thoughts and prayers to the victim.”

Detectives are urging anyone who may have witnessed the assault, or who may have seen a female in distress, to contact them in the Rape Crime Unit at Ladas Drive on 0845 600 8000. Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity, Crimestoppers, and speak to then anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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