A relaxing holiday in Portugal turned into a living nightmare for a 34-year-old American mother of four, who was subjected to a brutal and sustained gang rape after a night out in the Algarve.
The victim, who has not been named, had been enjoying an evening in the popular resort town of Albufeira. After accepting a lift back to her accommodation from a group of men, the situation turned horrifyingly violent.
According to local reports, the attack was prolonged and savage, lasting for an agonising ten hours. The men, who are alleged to have been foreign nationals working in the country, took it in turns to assault her.
Portuguese police, the Polícia Judiciária, have confirmed a major investigation is underway. A source close to the case stated, "The victim is being supported and we are doing everything possible to find those responsible for this abhorrent crime."
The woman was eventually able to escape her attackers and alert the authorities. She was rushed to hospital for urgent medical treatment and is now receiving specialist support as she begins to process the immense psychological trauma.
The case has sent shockwaves through the local community and the wider ex-pat population in the Algarve, a region heavily dependent on tourism and known for its vibrant nightlife.
This horrific incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities tourists can face abroad and has prompted discussions about safety for solo travellers.
