Police have arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of two counts of attempted rape in Rochdale after reports from two women in the early hours of Saturday morning. The incidents took place in two different parks, which are located just over three miles (5km) apart, and the man remains in custody for questioning while enquiries continue.
What happened in Rochdale?
Greater Manchester Police said officers received a report at 06:15 BST on Saturday that a woman had been sexually assaulted in Broadfield Park. A second report was made at 08:38, concerning the sexual assault of a women in Milnrow Memorial Park.
Both women, who are being supported by specialist officers, said they did not know the man and provided a similar description of the suspect, police said.
How did police identify the suspect?
Police identified CCTV footage of a man matching the description in the Ko-Ko Lounge in Rochdale, which he was seen leaving at around 05:00 BST. A man matching the description given by the two victims left the Ko-Ko Lounge in Rochdale town centre at about 05:00 BST, police say.
What has police advice been?
Before the man's arrest, Detective Chief Inspector Thomas Willis said in a statement:
You will see an increased police presence in Broadfield Park, Milnrow Memorial Park and Rochdale town centre over the coming days and throughout this evening.
