A woman was sexually assaulted in Sale after asking a man for a cigarette – and then waking up after smoking it to find herself stripped.
Police officers were told that the woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, had been walking home from a night out when she asked a man for a cigarette.
He reportedly took her by the hand to a nearby alleyway where he gave her a rolled-up cigarette.
The 21-year-old next recalls coming round and noticing that some of her clothing had been removed.
It is believed she was seriously sexually assaulted by the man.
The incident reportedly occurred around 3.45am on Saturday February 1.
Police were called to School Road in Sale following reports a 21-year-old woman had been attacked.
Detective Sergeant Claire Phythian, from GMP’s Serious Sexual Offences Unit, said: “The victim is understandably distraught and we are offering her whatever support we can at this deeply upsetting time.
“The woman had been out drinking with friends and it is extremely plausible that she was targeted by her attacker because of the very fact she had been drinking.
“While she cannot recall in great detail at this time exactly what happened, we firmly believe she was the victim of a serious sexual assault.
“I want to reassure the local community that we are working hard to find the person responsible.”
Police have also warned partygoers to avoid venturing off on their own.
“I would encourage those who are going out in the area this weekend – or in fact are going on a night out anywhere – to always pace your drinks, stay with friends and where possible get a taxi home,” he said.
The suspect is described as white, 5ft 7in tall, in his late 40s or early 50s, of slim to medium build but with a long chubby face.
He had blonde hair, a gap in his front lower teeth next to his fang and spoke with an Irish accent. He was wearing a red top, jeans and jacket.
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 6580, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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