West Midlands Police have made a fresh appeal to the public over the Oldbury rape case that shook the community almost 12 months ago, confirming that despite thousands of police hours and a detailed forensic investigation, no new clues or suspects have emerged.
Investigation draws a blank despite extensive efforts
A young woman in her 20s, of Sikh faith, was attacked as she walked to work through overgrown wasteland near a children's play park in Tame Road, Oldbury, at about 8.15am on September 9 last year. The assault sparked angry claims of two-tier policing, fearful vigils, questions in Parliament, a £30,000 reward, and extensive national coverage.
Three people remain on bail, including one man arrested 11 months ago. Police have admitted they have no new clues or new suspects, and the case has gone cold for now.
Victim's ordeal and police response
The victim described her two attackers as white. One was of heavy build with a shaved head, wearing a dark-coloured sweatshirt and gloves. The other wore a grey top with a silver zip. One of them used a racist phrase, telling her she 'did not belong here'.
Police launched a major investigation, treating the case as a priority. They assessed forensic evidence from the victim and the scene, conducted a fingertip search of the location, carried out repeated door-to-door inquiries, and reviewed hundreds of hours of CCTV and doorbell footage. Officers have since devoted thousands of hours to the case, including a detailed forensic analysis and multiple appeals.
Meetings have been held with local faith and women's community groups, while patrols have been increased locally to reassure residents. In line with all serious investigations, police have also probed alternative scenarios, including assessing the accuracy of the original report, but say nothing they have found casts doubt on the victim's ordeal or the trauma she experienced.
Police remain determined but no suspects
Chief Superintendent Kim Madill, the policing commander for Sandwell, confirmed: "We remain absolutely determined to catch those responsible. We still believe someone out there has information that will close this case. But for now we have no suspects."
The case has been described by police as 'incredibly sensitive and complex', and the victim has been left hugely traumatised as a result of the attack. One man in his 30s was arrested within days and remains under suspicion throughout. Two others, a man aged 49 and a woman aged 65, were questioned about the attack because they were in the frame for a separate assault in Halesowen, not far away.
Public appeal and support
The Major Incident Portal for the case remains open, and police continue to appeal for help. Anyone with information, no matter how small, should call 101, citing log 798, September 9 2025. Victims of sexual assault or rape can contact Rape Crisis for free, local, and specialist support, or use the national 24/7 Support Line at any time.
