A man has been arrested after a “vulnerable” teenager was allegedly the victim of a serious sexual assault in the centre of Aberdeen.
The roof of the St Nicholas shopping centre was sealed off by police following an incident involving an 18-year-old woman in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Officers later confirmed that a 20-year-old man had been detained in relation to the alleged assault.
Detective Inspector Jennifer Cordiner, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are following a positive line of inquiry into what appears to be a targeted assault on a vulnerable female within the city centre”.
The alleged attack took place at about 3.45am and the upper deck of the shopping centre was sealed off from the steps on Schoolhill to the entrance next to the Kirk of St Nicholas graveyard.
Police were seen guarding the spot throughout much of Saturday, advising shoppers and other visitors to stay away while specialists examined the scene for evidence.
Staff from the shopping centre were seen assisting police.
Councillor for the George Street and Harbour ward on Aberdeen City Council, Ryan Houghton, appealed for anyone with information to get in touch with the police.
He said: “You have to feel for the victim of this alleged attack.
“Nobody should have to feel unsafe while walking home. If anyone saw anything at the time, I would urge them to share any information they may have with the police.”
Fellow ward councillor, Sandra Macdonald, added that she hoped that the woman would be given support.
She said: “It’s always really distressing to hear of any type of incident like this in the city centre and it is horrible to hear that a young girl is involved.
“I can only feel for her and I hope all the services will be giving her support in this time.”