A police cordon remains in place at the scene of a serious sexual assault in a Suffolk town. 

It was reported to Suffolk police that a woman in her 20s was dragged and into the Gipping River path, off Station Road East in Stowmarket, before she was raped.

Police said the incident happened between the late afternoon and evening of Sunday. 

Stowmarket Mercury: Police at the scene of the serious sexual assault in StowmarketPolice at the scene of the serious sexual assault in Stowmarket (Image: Charlotte Bond)

Stowmarket Mercury: Police car in StowmarketPolice car in Stowmarket (Image: Charlotte Bond)

A cordon was put in place on Monday, and a spokesman for Suffolk police has confirmed that it remains in effect.

Officers remain at the scene guarding the pathway, which is just off the road. 

Detective Inspector Mark Hughes said: “I can understand this is concerning for residents in the area. This is a very serious incident, and the victim is being supported by specialist officers.

“Additional patrols have been put in place and residents will likely see an increased presence of both uniform and non-uniform officers while the investigation continues.

“Please can I ask that anyone that has any information comes forward and supports our investigation, including those with CCTV or dash cameras.”

Officers are appealing for anyone with any information to contact Suffolk police, quoting the crime reference number 37/19133/23.