Lincolnshire Police have arrested a 25-year-old Sudanese man after a woman in her 40s was assaulted in the North Parade area of Skegness on April 26. The force is investigating whether the attack was sexually motivated, with the suspect currently on police bail. This incident follows ongoing local tensions over asylum seeker accommodation in the town.
Active Police Inquiry
Lincolnshire Police confirmed the assault is under active investigation as officers work to clarify the exact circumstances. They have not yet charged the suspect but have kept him on bail while the inquiry continues.
Asylum Seeker Accommodation Tensions
The incident occurred near the County Hotel, a long-standing site used to house asylum seekers in Skegness, sometimes accommodating over 60 individuals. Locals claim this policy has impacted the area’s safety and local businesses, with some women feeling unsafe walking after dark.
Echoes Of Previous Cases
This is not the first time accommodation at the County Hotel has been linked to serious sexual offence allegations. In June 2023, an Egyptian asylum seeker was charged with raping a local woman in nearby Tower Gardens, sparking significant community outcry and protests.
Community Response
Residents have expressed anger about the suspect’s bail and the ongoing use of seafront hotels for asylum seeker housing. A protest is planned outside the County Hotel on Sunday, May 3 at 1pm demanding action and greater transparency over safety concerns.
“We are investigating whether this incident was sexually motivated in nature and officers are working hard to establish the exact circumstances involved,” said Lincolnshire Police.
