Woman sexually assaulted in car she thought was a taxi

Police have appealed for information about suspicious vehicles purporting to be cabs in Rotherham town centre.

It follows a 2am incident on December 27, when a woman got into a Renault Clio — which she believed to be a taxi — and was sexually assaulted by the driver.

Detectives are exploring the possibility that two other women got into the same blue vehicle at 1.40am when it was parked on Westgate. 

“They are keen to identify and speak to these women,” said a force spokesperson.

“They also want to hear from anyone who may have seen a blue Renault Clio or any suspicious vehicles purporting to be taxis, or parking in areas frequented by taxis, in the town centre that evening or on other occasions.”

A 37-year-old man from Rotherham has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and is currently on bail pending further enquiries.

The spokesperson added: “If you were one of the women described above, or you have any information about this matter, please get in touch. 

“You can do this via live chat, our online portal or by calling 101 quoting incident number 161 of December 27, 2022.

“Alternatively, if you would prefer not to give your personal details, you can stay anonymous and pass on what you know by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers. 

“Call their UK Contact Centre on freephone 0800 555 111 or complete a simple and secure anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”