Man suspected of alleged rape escapes from custody

A 32-year-old man from Guinea has escaped custody at around 7.30pm this evening. The man, Seykou Bellde, was assisting the police in its investigation into the alleged rape that took place last night in St Julian's.

Although the police would not state as much, it is understood that Bellde is being accused of attempted rape.

In a statement, the police said that Ballde escaped from the St Julian's police station while he was assisting the police with its investigations into the alleged rape case.

The police urged the public to come forward with any information on his whereabouts by calling on 21224001 or 119.

Earlier today, the Police said that a timely response by two Police Constables from the Rapid Intervention Unit has led to the arrest of a foreigner while allegedly raping a woman today,  in Triq San Ġorġ, St Julians. 

Preliminary investigations found that the Police Officers were on patrol when they heard a woman shouting. They immediately intervened and arrested the suspect despite his resistance and attempt to flee.

A 27-year-old woman was allegedly sexually assaulted at 3.15am in Paceville. A man from Guinea was arrested in relation to the case and was expected to be arraigned tomorrow