AN investigation has been launched following the alleged sexual assault on a teenage girl near a school in Co Down.
The incident took place in the Samson’s Lane area, off the Ardglass Road in Downpatrick shortly after 8.30am on Tuesday.
No arrests have been made at this time and the PSNI has not released any details of a suspect.
Local District Commander Superintendent Norman Haslett said a specialist team of Detectives from the PSNI’s Rape Crime Unit are investigating the incident.
He said: “I want to reassure the community that a dedicated, skilled and specialist trained team of Detectives are working at pace to support the victim of this crime and to progress the investigation.”
The PSNI said it will be stepping up police patrols in the area.
In a statement, cops urged anyone who may have any information on the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation.
Supt Haslett said: “I would appeal to anyone who may have been in the area yesterday morning, or who has any information that could help our investigation, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to please bring it to us by calling 101, quoting reference 353 24/06/25 or online.
“If you would prefer to provide your information anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity, you can do so by calling 0800 555 111 or online.”
He added: “I want to further reassure the community that there will be a noticeable increase in police patrols in the area in the coming days and weeks.”
