A 20-year-old asylum seeker, temporarily accommodated on the controversial Bibby Stockholm barge, has been charged with sexually assaulting a woman on a beach in Dorset. The alleged incident occurred last month, raising further concerns about the UK's handling of asylum cases.
The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was arrested following a report from the victim. Authorities confirmed that the man is one of the migrants housed on the Bibby Stockholm, a floating accommodation facility docked in Portland.
Local residents have expressed shock and anger over the incident, with some calling for stricter vetting procedures for asylum seekers. "This is deeply troubling," said a community spokesperson. "We need assurances that such incidents won't happen again."
The Bibby Stockholm has been at the centre of political debates since its introduction as a temporary solution to housing asylum seekers. Critics argue that the barge is overcrowded and unsuitable for long-term stays, while supporters claim it is a necessary measure to address the backlog in asylum applications.
Police have urged anyone with additional information to come forward as investigations continue. The accused is expected to appear in court next week.
