Key witnesses sought after serious sexual assault

We are releasing CCTV in the hope of identifying possible key witnesses to a serious sexual assault in Taunton.

Detectives are investigating after a woman was waved into a vehicle in South Street, Taunton, by two unknown men at around 12.15pm on Thursday, August 8.

The men forced the victim into the vehicle, where she was raped.

The woman managed to escape and approached a dog walker to ask for information on how to get home. The dog walker is described as white, with blonde hair and walking a black dog.

Officers are keen to speak to the four people shown in the images above and clips below as we believe they may have important information to help our investigation.

Inquiries into the incident are ongoing and officers are supporting the victim throughout the investigation.

The suspects are described by the victim as being of mixed ancestry, approximately 6 feet tall and in their late 30s.

One man was described as being heavyset, with black hair and a mustache. He wore a red polo shirt, had a tattoo on the back of his neck and wore a silver chain. The second suspect is described as being thin and with black hair. He had several piercings and no facial hair.

They are believed to have been driving a small, dark car.

Neighborhood Inspector Jonathan Eamer said: “We understand this could be a very alarming and distressing incident in the local community, but we believe this is an isolated incident with no further reports of this nature.

“We are supporting the victim during this time and commend her for her bravery in coming forward.

“We are appealing to the woman who came to the victim’s aid to come forward. We are also asking anyone driving or living in South Street, Taunton, who may have dashcam, doorbell or CCTV footage, to get in touch as soon as possible.”

If you can help with our queries, please call 101 and quote reference 5224207440.