Woman 'raped in Belfast alleyway'

A woman was allegedly raped in an alleyway early today, police said.

It is believed the woman was seriously sexually assaulted by two men in the lane between Cromwell Street and Ireton Street, in the university area of south Belfast, between 12.30am and 1.30am.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

SDLP South Belfast MLA Conall McDevitt condemned the sexual assault and said it was harrowing for the victim

“It is so important that the community pull behind the police and people look out for their neighbours in order to make South Belfast safer for everyone,” he said.

He said Belfast City Council and the Department of Justice are carrying out an alley gate scheme to improve the safety of alley areas throughout the city

“I appeal to anyone with information about this rape to pass it on to the police immediately,” he said.