Man arrested on suspicion of rape after traffic stop

A man has been arrested on suspicion of rape after police made a routine traffic stop and discovered a female passenger in a "vulnerable state".

The 18-year-old woman, believed to have been under the influence of alcohol or drugs, was in the passenger seat of a car driven in Manchester by a 40-year-old man.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said when the man and woman were separated she made allegations of serious sexual offences.

A 40-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of rape and sexual assault and has been bailed pending further enquiries.

The force said the white Kia Sportage was pulled over at around 04:00 BST on Monday on Oldham Road.

When speaking to the driver, officers from the City of Manchester Response Unit concluded the passenger was in a "vulnerable state".

After making the allegations she was taken to hospital for treatment.

Ch Insp Robert Riddell said: "Thanks to the proactive patrol and instincts of our officers in and around the city centre we were able to safeguard a vulnerable female and ensure she received the medical treatment and ongoing support following this incident."

He urged anyone with information about the allegations to get in touch.

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