Two separate incidents of sexual assault over the past three weeks has Surrey RCMP offering advice to pedestrians to stay safe.
The first incidents occurred Dec. 22 at 12:40 a.m. near 120A Street and 92A Avenue. A women wearing headphones was was grabbed from behind and groped by an unidentified male, who fled after hearing police sirens. The suspect was described as in his 20s, roughly 5’10” with a medium build. He was wearing black clothes.
The second incident occurred at 2:20 a.m. on Jan. 7. A woman was walking near 72 Avenue and 196 Street when a male suspect groped her from behind and attempted to take her down.
The woman fought the male off, and he fled on foot.
Surrey RCMP’s Special Victims Unit (SVU) is investigating both attacks. SVU is a team of specialized officers that focus on sex-related crimes.
“Thankfully neither victim was physically injured during these attacks,” said RCMP Cpl. Scotty Schumann. “Investigators at this time have not found any links between the two incidents.
“We are reminded of the need for all pedestrians to be aware of their surroundings at all times, especially late at night when walking alone.”
Surrey RCMP encourages pedestrians to follow these steps to reduce the likelihood of an attack:
- Walk with confidence. Keep your head up and know where you are going.
- Limit distractions. Store mobile phones and other valuables out of sight and remove your headphones.
- Call a friend. Let someone know where you are going.
- Stay visible. Stick to well-lit areas and don’t wear dark clothing at night.
- Keys ready. Have your car or house keys ready before you reach the door.
Anyone with more information on either assault is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or Crime Stoppers, if they wish to remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca
