Officers spot suspicious vehicle and arrest driver on suspicion of rape

Whilst patrolling Oldham Road in Manchester at around 4am on Monday 31 March 2025, officers from the City of Manchester Response Unit pulled over a white Kia Sportage as part of a routine traffic stop.

As they spoke with the driver they observed the front seat passenger, an 18-year-old woman, and noted she was under the influence and in what the officers assessed as a vulnerable state.

Once separated, a report was disclosed to our officers in confidence that they had been a victim of serious sexual offences. She was taken to hospital for medical treatment.

The driver, a 40-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape and sexual assault by penetration and has subsequently been bailed pending further enquiries.

Chief Inspector Robert Riddell from out City of Manchester district said, “Thanks to the proactive patrol and instincts of our officers in and around the city centre we were able to safeguard a vulnerable female and ensure she received the medical treatment and ongoing support following this incident.

“Our enquiries are ongoing into this specific incident, but I would like to remind people that if they witness anything or have any concerns to please speak to our officers or report it immediately to us so we can look to take action.”

Anyone with additional information around this incident is asked to call 101 direct quoting incident 320 of 31/03/2025. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.