A young woman was subjected to a horrific rape in broad daylight on a bustling street, in what the police are investigating as a "racially aggravated attack".
West Midlands Police received a distress call at 8.30am on Tuesday from a British-born woman in her 20s, who reported being sexually assaulted by two men in the Tame Road area of Oldbury.
The authorities have revealed that the assailants allegedly made a racist comment during the brutal attack, and are urging any potential witnesses to step forward.
Ch Supt Kim Madill stated: "We are working really hard to identify those responsible, with CCTV, forensic and other inquiries well under way."
She further added: "We fully understand the anger and worry that this has caused, and I am speaking to people in the community today to reassure them that we are doing everything we can to identify and arrest those responsible."
The Sikh Federation (UK) disclosed that the attackers reportedly told the victim: "You don't belong in this country, get out," during the appalling assault, reports the Mirror.
Dabinderjit Singh, the chief executive for political engagement at the Sikh Federation (UK), detailed how the assault occurred in "broad daylight on a busy road", adding that Sikh Youth UK was providing support to the victim and her family.
He stated: "Politicians from all political parties should have zero tolerance for all violent racist attacks.
"The current racist political environment is driven by populism and created by politicians playing the anti-immigration card who are unashamedly exploiting those with right-wing and racist views.
"More than 48 hours later we await the public condemnation by politicians on all sides of this brutal racist and sexual attack where a young Sikh woman has been viciously beaten and raped."
Gurinder Singh Josan, Labour MP for Smethwick, posted on X: "This is a truly horrific attack and my thoughts are with the victim.
"I have now spoken with the Borough Commander Chief Supt Kim Madill and am reassured Sandwell Police are doing everything they possibly can to find the perpetrators.
"The incident is being treated as a hate crime. The police are working extremely sympathetically with the victim at her pace who has been traumatised by the attack.
"We are grateful for all the CCTV and information that has already been forthcoming from the community."
If you or somebody you know has been affected by this story, contact Victim Support for free, confidential advice on 08 08 16 89 111 or visit their website, Home - Victim Support.