Woman raped by fake taxi driver

A 30-year-old woman was picked up on Market Street, Hindley by a pale blue/silver BMW car which she believed to be a taxi, at around 12.10am on Monday May 2.

She was then driven to an unknown location in the Platt Bridge area of Wigan where she was raped.

The incident was reported to police a short time later and the woman is now being provided with support by specially trained officers.

The offender is described as an Asian man in his 30’s and of average build. He spoke in broken English and was wearing white clothing.

Detective Constable Kevin Byrne of GMP’s Wigan Division said: “This is an awful incident which has understandably left the victim feeling very distressed and she is now being provided with support from specially trained officers at this difficult time.

“I know an incident such as this will understandably cause a lot of concern within the community but I want to assure everybody that we have launched a full investigation with a team of determined detectives working to identify the person responsible.

“If you believe you may have information that can assist us or you think you may have seen a car and man fitting this description in the Wigan area then please contact police immediately.

“We would also ask that members of the public to take a taxi they can trust, ensuring it is licensed and from a reputable firm.”

Anybody with information should contact police on 0161 856 1828 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.