Man arrested after rape of Sikh woman in 'brutal racist sexual attack' released on bail

The man, in his 30s, was detained as part of enquiries into the assault in the Tame Road area of Oldbury on Tuesday morning.

The victim, a British-born Sikh woman in her 20s, was reportedly told “you don’t belong in this country” as the attack unfolded.

The perpetrators allegedly told the woman "you don't belong in this country, get out" as they sexually assaulted her, between 8am and 8.30am, the Sikh Federation (UK) said.

A man in his 30s, who was arrested on Sunday on suspicion of rape, has been released on bail pending further inquiries, West Midlands Police said on Wednesday.

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Speaking out after the attack, the victim said she would never wish this on “anyone".

The woman, who is granted anonymity as a sex offence victim, issued a statement on Saturday via the Sikh Youth UK community group.

It read: "We are going through a lot, but the strength and kindness shown by the right people in the community has been incredible and I can't thank them enough for being my voice.

"I would never wish this on anyone. All I was doing was going about my day on my way to work, and what has happened has deeply affected us.

"Referring to her family as her "rock," she added that the police are “doing their best to find those responsible, and I truly hope they are caught so that this doesn't happen to anyone else."

She added that she was "truly humbled" by the love and support she'd received.

"I want to personally thank my family, Sikh Youth UK, who have been so supportive, the local Gurdwara committees and Sikh orgs, and everyone in my community who has stood by me. I cannot thank you enough for helping me get through this difficult time," the victim said.

Officers are continuing to appeal for information about the incident, which is said to have happened as the woman was walking to work.

The victim is being supported by officers, the force said, as they trawl hundreds of hours of CCTV and carry out "extensive" forensic inquiries.

The police are urging anyone who saw two white men in the area to come forward.

The first man is reported to have had a shaved head, a heavy build and was wearing gloves and a dark coloured sweatshirt, while the second was wearing a grey top with a silver zip.

Chief Superintendent Kim Madill, police commander at Sandwell, said: "We are working closely with key partners and we absolutely understand the concern of local people.

"We need the public's help to bring us information on who has carried out this horrendous attack.

"I can reassure you that we are doing everything possible to bring those responsible to justice on this young woman's behalf."

Multiple MPs expressed their shock and alarm at the racist attack.

Smethwick MP Gurinder Singh Josan told the Guardian she understands "the strength of feeling within the community this attack has generated."

"The community needs to allow the police to progress with the investigation," the MP added.