News / Police renew their appeal for information after Sunday night’s alleged sexual assault
POLICE in Shetland have renewed their appeal for information following an alleged sexual assault of a woman in Lerwick town centre in the early hours of Monday.
They have also moved to reassure the public that they are doing all they can to trace two men they would like to speak to in connection with the alleged incident.
Chief inspector Lindsay Tulloch said specialist officers have been flown to the isles to lead the investigation.
Officers were alerted to the incident at 1.15am and attended the scene at Mulley’s Steps, near Commercial Street, in the town centre.
Chief inspector Lindsay Tulloch, Shetland area commander, said: “This is a distressing incident first and foremost for the victim, who is being supported by officers and partner agencies at this time.”
He continued saying that officers were looking through CCTV and any other camera footage that is available for the area.
He added: “Incidents of this nature are rare in Shetland and it has understandably caused distress and concern across local communities.
“I would like to reassure the public that we are using all available means to identify the persons responsible; local officers in addition to specially trained officers and a dedicated senior investigating officer are present in Lerwick and are dedicated to this investigation.
“I would like to thank local residents, business owners and visitors for their response and support so far.
“As we know the weekend and this week brings an influx of visitors to the islands – to Lerwick in particular – for Up Helly Aa, and we would once again urge anyone who was in the Lerwick town centre area on Sunday evening into Monday morning and could help assist in identifying these two men to make contact with police as a matter of urgency.
The two police are keen to trace two men are described as being white with fair hair, around 6ft in height and of stocky build. Age and clothing details are not known.
Tulloch added: “All information, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, will be investigated and could be key to this investigation.
“Information can also be discussed with any police officer, in person at Lerwick Police station or via Crimestoppers if you wish to remain anonymous.”
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.