Warning To Women After Portsmouth Indecent Assaults

14 November 2014, 05:58 | Updated: 14 November 2014, 06:05

Portsmouth detectives are warning women to be careful if they're walking alone in the city - after two indecent assaults in broad daylight.

Both occurred around midday on different days last week in the city centre.
 
The first incident took place between 11.45am and 12pm on Monday 3 November in a pathway between Aldwell Street and Winston Churchill Avenue, near the junction with Somers Road.
 
A 20-year-old woman was assaulted over her clothes. Following the incident the man ran past a number of people and into Sedgley Close.
 
The second took place just before 12pm on Friday 7 November in a pathway between Winston Churchill Avenue and River Street.
 
A 20-year-old woman was indecently assaulted by a man who approached her from behind. Following the incident the man ran along Fordbury and into Somers Road.
 
The women were both uninjured but shaken.
 
In both cases the man is described as:

- Approximately 6ft tall
- Medium build
- Wearing a white or light coloured jacket with piping along the sleeve and dark coloured bottoms, possibly jeans

Detective Constable Dave Lynn said:

“This is the second incident in this area and at this time of day within a week. This has occurred around lunchtime and there were people around this busy area.
 
“These incidents occurred very near Portsmouth University and we are also wprking with the university, not only to gather information but also to reiterate our personal safety advice.
 
“I would encourage all women walking alone in the city centre to be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity. If possible it would be advisable to walk in a group.
 
“Anyone who may have witnessed either incident or has any information which may help us identify the person responsible is asked to contact us.

Police aren't linking them to two similar attacks last month.
 
Anyone with information should contact DC Lynn at Fratton police station on 101. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.