Fresh CCTV images have today been released in a bid to trace two men who beat up and raped a young woman in Ipswich.

https://vimeo.com/206549941

A top police officer has condemned the “appalling” and “callous” attack, which has left the victim “traumatised” and with significant injuries.

It happened between 3.10am and 3.30am on Saturday, February 25 in a car park area near Rope Walk.

The victim, a woman in her late 20s, was grabbed by two unknown men and had her mouth covered before she was physically assaulted and raped.

The ordeal is thought to have lasted for several minutes before the culprits ran away.

Ipswich Star: CCTV images of two men police want to speak to in connection with a rape in Ipswich. Picture: SUFFOLK CONSTABULARYCCTV images of two men police want to speak to in connection with a rape in Ipswich. Picture: SUFFOLK CONSTABULARY (Image: Suffolk Constabulary)

The woman was left unconscious and suffered significant injuries to her face and neck that required hospital treatment.

Suffolk Constabulary has issued new CCTV images and footage of two men that they want to trace in connection with the attack.

Officers are also appealing to find two women who are believed to have had an altercation with these men inside Bowman’s Bar in Falcon Street earlier that night and could be “vital witnesses”.

Detective Superintendent Eamonn Bridger, who is leading the investigation, said: “I am appealing to anyone who has any information about this attack to contact us immediately.

Ipswich Star: CCTV images of two men police want to speak to in connection with a rape in Ipswich. Picture: SUFFOLK CONSTABULARYCCTV images of two men police want to speak to in connection with a rape in Ipswich. Picture: SUFFOLK CONSTABULARY (Image: Suffolk Constabulary)

“This is an appalling crime whereby an innocent young woman was subjected to a sustained sexual attack by two unknown individuals. “This has left her both traumatised and with significant injuries. She has been exceptionally brave and continues to recover from this callous attack.

“The initial appeal for information has led to a good response from the community of Ipswich and there is a clear intent to help.

“I believe that anyone who knows the two men pictured in the further release of CCTV will be able to identify them from the images. It is crucial that people contact us without delay if they have any information regarding these men.

“We are also keen to trace two women who we believe encountered these men inside Bowman’s Bar. They could be vital witnesses who may be able to provide us with important information in this inquiry.”

Ipswich Star: CCTV images of two men police want to speak to in connection with a rape in Ipswich. Picture: SUFFOLK CONSTABULARYCCTV images of two men police want to speak to in connection with a rape in Ipswich. Picture: SUFFOLK CONSTABULARY (Image: Suffolk Constabulary)

Mr Bridger said increased police patrols has been laid on in the town centre tonight and for the continuance of the enquiry.

He added: “Anyone with information who may not be keen on phoning the police, is encouraged to approach officers and speak to them directly if they feel more comfortable doing this.”

To help contact Suffolk Constabulary on 101 quoting CAD number 172 of February 28.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or through their anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.