Detectives have released CCTV images of four Asian men they want to speak to after a woman was raped in Bristol city centre in the early hours of Sunday. The attack happened in the Assembly Rooms Lane area at approximately 3.05am on March 29.

The victim told officers the suspects were Asian and aged in their 20s or 30s. Enquiries, including fast-track forensics and CCTV review, have led police to obtain images of the four men they wish to identify and speak to.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Almond said: “The first officers attended the scene within eight minutes of this rape offence being reported to us and helped to take the victim to a place of safety.

“Her welfare has been of paramount importance to us. We will ensure she has the support she needs, not only now, but in the days and weeks ahead.

“Since Sunday a large number of investigative enquiries have taken place, including fast-track forensics analysis and reviewing security and CCTV footage.

“Further lines of enquiry are being followed up, and while those are ongoing, we hope there will be people who can help us identify these four men.

“They were not on the scene when police arrived, but were seen in the city centre on the night in question. We believe based off of our CCTV enquiries they then headed towards the eastern part of the city at about 3.30–4am on Sunday.”

DCI Almond continued: “People will be understandably shocked and upset to learn of this awful crime.

“Rape offences where the suspect is unknown to the victim are not common and we wish to reassure everyone this is being treated with the utmost seriousness.

“Extra high-visibility patrols in the city centre have been carried out this week and these will continue across the bank holiday weekend.”

Anyone who can help identify the men, or assist the investigation, is asked to call 101 quoting reference number 5226085769 or log number 95 of March 29.