Detectives in Tameside are investigating after a woman was raped on a pathway in Ashton-under-Lyne, with a police scene remaining in place and officers urging the public to be vigilant.
The attack happened on the pathway between Turner Lane and Cranbourne Road on Tuesday, November 10. Greater Manchester Police said a man, described as white and believed to have been wearing dark clothing, was seen behaving erratically in the area around 2pm that day.
Suspect description released
The man is understood to be around 5ft 7ins tall, of average build, and it is believed he could have been wearing a cap at the time. Detectives have asked anyone who spots someone of that description who is causing them concern to call 999 immediately.
Detective Inspector Mike Dever said: "We are working extremely hard to secure justice for the victim of this horrific and deeply distressing ordeal and she is being supported by specialist officers at this difficult time. We also do not underestimate the significant concern news of this incident will cause in the local community and officers will continue to make themselves available to you as part of additional patrols which will continue over the coming days."
Investigation ongoing
A GMP spokesperson said: "Detectives are appealing for information as part of an ongoing investigation into the rape of a woman in Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside. Enquiries are progressing after a woman reported being raped by an unknown man on Tuesday and a scene remains in place near Turner Lane and Cranbourne Road."
Officers have been carrying out extensive CCTV trawls, gathering witness statements, and conducting additional patrols since receiving the report. The spokesperson added: "As part of these enquiries we have received reports that a man, who is described as white and is believed to have been wearing dark clothing, was seen behaving erratically in the area around 2pm."
Anyone with information should contact GMP on 0161 856 5198 quoting log number 2195 of 10 November 2026, or contact police online via the LiveChat function.
