Police in Midlothian are investigating following a report of a sexual assault in the Hillend area.
The incident initially started at around 3.30am this morning when a 31-year-old was picked up by car that she believed to be a private hire taxi. She entered the car in Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh, near to Greyfriars Bobby’s statue.
She was then taken to a layby just passed Hillend Ski Slope, near to Boghall Farm in Midlothian where she was assaulted. After the assault she was taken to the city bypass where she left the car, near to the Sheriffhall roundabout.
Police are now appealing for any witnesses who may have seen the victim or the car when it was travelling.
The suspect is described as a man with a South Asian appearance, aged 35-40, with an Edinburgh accent. He is around 5ft 5”- 5ft 6” with a slim build; dark cropped hair and is clean-shaven. He was wearing dark clothing.
The car used is described as a five door saloon, which is possibly navy blue in colour.
Detective Sergeant Keith Mackay said: “This was a frightening experience for the woman, who is now in the care of her family.
“We are eager to trace this man and are appealing for witnesses. Anyone who recognises the man’s description, or the description of the car, is urged to come forward.”
Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
