Woman raped in what she believed to be a taxi

A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “At around 11.45pm an 18-year-old woman left Wetherspoons on West Street and walked towards the clock tower. Outside Sprinkles Gelato she got into what she thought was a taxi and asked to be taken to Hove.

“During the drive to the destination, he stopped the vehicle and climbed into the back where he raped her. He then continued to drive and dropped her near Hangleton Way. She walked to her destination where she raised the alarm and the police were called shortly after midnight.”

Detective Constable Dows said: “We are supporting the victim as she is obviously very distressed by what happened but is helping us with the investigation. She has described the vehicle as a white and green six seater vehicle, which at the time she believed was a taxi. She also described the driver as of Asian appearance, around 40 with black hair and a bit chubby. He was wearing a white shirt with sleeves to his elbow.

“We are open to the fact this might not have been a genuine taxi and we are appealing to anyone who might have seen this vehicle parked near the top of West Street or witnessed similar vehicle acting suspiciously in the Hangleton Way area. If you have any information which might help us please come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police here quoting serial 33 of 20/11.