Police Concerned Over Sexual Assaults, North West

The PSNI said it is becoming concerned by the number of sexual assaults in the north west in social settings that have been reported recently.

Between the end of September and the middle of November, police said 17 reports of sexual assault have been made in the Foyle, Limavady, Magherafelt and Strabane.

Detective Chief Inspector James Mullen explained: "We have received reports of incidents in licensed premises, at house parties, in private homes and in public places. The incidents have included sexual assault, indecent assault and rape. Any sexual assaults have the potential for long lasting consequences for the victims and their families."



Police have offered the following advice to minimise the risks of sexual assaults.



• Arrange transport to and from home before you go out for the night.

• Tell someone where you are going and what time you will be home.

• Don't drink too much alcohol and keep an eye on the amount friends are drinking.

• Don't let friends go off alone with someone, or do something they wouldn't normally do.

• Do not walk alone in dark, unfamiliar areas.

• If needing a lift home, arrange for someone to collect you, or take a licensed taxi.

• Don't leave your drink unattended at any time and never accept a drink from someone you do not completely trust.

• If someone attempts to engage you in sexual activity that is unwanted, say no and make it clear that you do not give your consent.

• If you have been the subject of a sexual assault, tell the police or an independent support agency, such as Women's Aid.

• If someone you know has been subject to a sexual offence encourage them to report it to police or an independent support agency, such as Women's Aid.

• Call 999 in an emergency.



(IT/CD)