A 28-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a series of sexual assaults on the Bridgewater Canal path.
We reported yesterday how officers were investigating seven separate reports of sexual assaults between Tuesday March 2nd and Sunday March 7th.
In each, an offender riding a mountain bike had approached the victim from behind before touching them inappropriately whilst riding past.
The most recent incident occurred yesterday morning in the Timperley section of the Bridgewater Canal path, with three earlier assaults on the canal path in Sale – at 6pm on March 2nd, 9.20am on March 3rd and 9.20am on March 6th.
Further assaults took place on March 6th on Bridgewater Way in Old Trafford, Little Ees Lane in Sale and an unknown location close to the River Mersey.
A 28-year-old man has now been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault, and he remains in custody for questioning.
Detective Inspector Dave Jones GMP’s Trafford District said: “Thankfully no injuries were reported following these incidents but events like this can cause considerable distress and upset for those involved. We understand the concern and worry this can also cause for the wider community and I want to reassure you we are taking these reports incredibly seriously and currently have increased police patrols in the area.
“Although we currently have one man in custody for questioning our investigation continues and we would appeal to anyone who may have any concerns or information relating to these incidents to come forward and assist police with our enquiries.
“We’d also like to take this opportunity to appeal to anyone else who feels they may have also been subject to a similar assault to please come forward and speak with police. Your report or concerns will be treated with the utmost seriousness and sensitivity and there are also a range of specialist support services available across Greater Manchester.”
Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 7544 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
