A teenager has been left “traumatized and extremely distressed” after a sexual assault in Derry.

The attack took place in the Bank Place area of ​​the city at around 1.30am on Saturday 26 October.

Police said the victim is receiving specialist support and is appealing for information from the public.

Officers are also to increase patrols in the city, while plainclothes officers will also work to spot “predatory behaviour” in pubs and other venues and on the streets during Halloween.

The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 5-foot-10 in height with a medium to large build.

He was wearing white sneakers, dark jeans and a dark T-shirt with a tag or logo on the back.

“Understandably, the victim, in her late teens, was left traumatized and extremely distressed. Our specialist officers will continue to support her,” said a PSNI spokesman.

“We have a number of calls to make as we continue with inquiries which include checking CCTV.

“We know Bank Place was occupied at the time. If you were in the area or witnessed this sexual assault or believe you had contact with the suspect, we urge you to contact us.

“We also want to hear from anyone who helped the victim in any way, including asking for help.” For drivers, including taxi drivers, if you have any dashcam footage from this area at this time, we’d love to hear from you.

They added: “Anyone with information about what happened is urged to contact us and tell us what you know. If you can help our investigation please contact the police on 101 quoting reference 1303 of 26/10/24.”

Speaking about the increase in patrols, PSNI Area Commander for Derry City and Strabane, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney, added: “I want to reassure the public that our officers will be visible in communities with an increased presence ahead of Halloween, particularly during the economy on at night.

“Not only will the public see officers on the ground in uniform, but we will have plainclothes officers on patrol working to spot predatory behavior in bars, nightclubs and on our streets.

“We are there to identify people who are exhibiting predatory behaviour, including sexual harassment, inappropriate touching and loitering.

“We are on patrol and here to help and I would urge anyone with concerns or needing help to call us on 101, always 999 in an emergency.”