Crimestoppers offers £20,000 reward for information that helps catch perpetrator of racially-aggravated rape in Oldbury

It comes after members of the Sikh community offered a £10,000 reward for information that results in a successful prosecution for the assault on the woman, which police have described as "racially-aggravated".

A police investigation continues following the attack on a woman in her 20s in the Tame Road area of Oldbury just before 8.30am on September 9. The victim, reported to be a British-born Sikh aged in her 20s, told West Midlands Police officers a racist remark was made to her during the sexual assault. 

Chief Superintendent Kim Madill from Sandwell Police said this week: “We are determined to find answers, and with the public’s help, we believe we can. This young woman is at the heart of our enquiries and we continue to support her and keep her updated on developments.

“We again appeal to anyone who was in the area who may have seen two white men around the time of 8.30am. One had a shaved head and a heavy build and was reported to be wearing a dark coloured sweatshirt and had gloves on. The second man was reportedly wearing a grey top with a silver zip. 

“To date, specialist detectives have examined hundreds of hours of CCTV, our forensic specialists are also carrying out extensive enquiries and these will continue as part of the investigation.

“We are working closely with key partners and keeping them as updated as we can.

“Whilst this is being treated as an isolated incident at this time, I understand the fear and concern this has caused for our communities. Violence against women and girls remains a key priority for me and my teams in Sandwell. 

“I would like to reassure you that we are doing everything possible to bring those responsible to justice on this young woman’s behalf.

“Our investigation will not stop until individuals responsible for this awful attack are put before the courts.”

Alan Edwards, Crimestoppers West Midlands regional manager, said: “We know that this attack has caused worry and concern for local people.

“We believe someone out there knows something and we want to encourage them to come forward anonymously. The reward is offered to prompt anyone with information to speak up, no matter how small the detail.”

Crimestoppers, which is independent of the police, is supporting the investigation by offering a reward for information it exclusively receives that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible.

Anyone who thinks they know more can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded, and you will not go to court.