- By Supratik Das
- Sat, 18 Oct 2025 09:10 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Two individuals, a 49-year-old man and a 65-year-old woman from Sandwell, have been arrested on suspicion of rape, including a racially aggravated attack on a British Sikh woman in her 20s, West Midlands Police confirmed on Friday. The arrests follow a second incident involving a woman in her 30s in Halesowen, which is not being treated as racially motivated.
West Midlands Police stated that both suspects were initially arrested in connection with the attack on a woman in her 30s at Hurst Green Park, Halesowen, reported around 7 pm on Thursday. The police later confirmed that the same pair were arrested for a racially aggravated rape that occurred on September 9 on Tame Road, Oldbury, Sandwell. The suspects remain in custody for questioning as investigations continue.
Racially Motivated Assault Sparks Outrage
The attack on the British Sikh woman has sent shockwaves across the community. Reports indicate that the assailants, described as two white males, allegedly told the victim, “You don’t belong in this country, get out,” during the assault. Sikh organisations and local community groups have expressed deep concern over the racial aspect of the crime.
UK crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers offered a reward of 20,000 Pounds for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrators. Additionally, British Sikh organisations announced a separate 10,000 Pounds reward for any video footage or evidence that could aid in securing convictions.
The case also reached the UK Parliament, where Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood condemned the attack. “The horror of a sexual assault motivated by race or ethnicity is absolutely appalling. I am sure that the whole House will join me in condemning such crimes in the strongest possible terms. This government will not stand for any incitement to racial hatred or violence,” she stated.
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The Sikh woman, through Sikh Youth UK, shared her ordeal, saying, “All I was doing was going about my day on my way to work, and what has happened has deeply affected us. Through it all, my family has been my rock, and my community has stood strong beside me.”
West Midlands Police have assured the public that the investigation is ongoing, and authorities are following all leads to ensure justice is served. Officials urge anyone with information or evidence to come forward and assist the investigation.
