Man on CCTV may hold key to savage attack

GARDAI are appealing for help from the public to identify a man who could hold vital information about a savage sex attack on a woman last year.

The woman was assaulted in Elmpark in Ranelagh, on the south side of Dublin, as she walked from South King Street in the city centre.

No arrests have been made in connection with the attack, which happened at around 2.30am on October 26, 2008. Gardai are anxious to speak to a man recorded on CCTV that night. He was dressed in a black coat, blue jeans and brown shoes. He has a receding hairline and appears to be in his late 20s or 30s.

"We are very keen to speak with this man. We have made exhaustive inquiries to date in relation to this very serious sexual assault, but have failed to identify this witness," Superintendent Finbarr O'Brien of Donnybrook garda station said.

"The investigation team here in Donnybrook would be very grateful for any assistance the community can provide."

The Irish Crimestoppers Trust previously offered a reward of €10,000 to anyone who might be able to shed light on the terrifying incident.

Anyone who feels they may know the man's identity or whereabouts is being urged to contact gardai at Donnybrook (01 666 9200), on the Garda Confidential Line (1800 666 111)