Cleveland Police have launched a major manhunt for a group of up to seven men following a serious sexual assault on a young woman in Middlesbrough town centre.
Details of the Assault
The incident occurred on Saturday, December 13, 2025, between 7:30 pm and 8:00 pm. A 25-year-old woman was leaving the Bazaar Restaurant in Captain Cook Square when she was approached by a group of five to seven men.
The men, who are all believed to be Asian and aged between 17 and 23, initially made comments towards her. They then surrounded the victim before one of them sexually assaulted her. All the men were described as wearing dark clothing.
Police Investigation and Public Appeal
Following the attack, the group fled the area in an unknown direction. The woman returned inside the restaurant premises. Cleveland Police were alerted and immediately began an investigation to identify those responsible.
Officers have now released a CCTV image of a man they urgently wish to speak to, as he may hold vital information that could assist the probe. The image forms a central part of their public appeal.
PC Burnhope, from Middlesbrough's neighbourhood policing team, stated: "I understand this will be concerning to the local community and we are doing all we can to identify the person responsible."
"As part of our enquiries, I am appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time, may have information that could help the investigation or know the men involved to please get in touch," PC Burnhope added. "I would also appeal to the person in this photo, and anyone who may know him, to contact us."
How to Contact Police
The police force has urged anyone with information to come forward. You can contact them by:
- Calling 101 and quoting reference number 238172.
- Visiting the Cleveland Police website.
Alternatively, information can be provided completely anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 08000 555 111.
