Two Arrested Over Linked Rapes in Halesowen, Oldbury

Two people — a 49-year-old man and a 65-year-old woman from Sandwell — have been arrested by West Midlands Police over two alleged rapes: one in grassland off Tame Road, Oldbury on 9 September involving a British‑born Sikh woman in her 20s that is being treated as racially aggravated, and a second reported at Hurst Green Park, Halesowen on 16 October involving a woman in her 30s. Police say inquiries are ongoing, with teams reviewing CCTV and forensic evidence, maintaining increased patrols and and providing specialist support to both victims. Reporting differs on the suspects' custody status — some outlets say they were bailed with conditions pending further investigation while others report they remain in custody. The Oldbury attack prompted local protests and vigils and drew responses from community groups including the Sikh Federation UK and MP Preet Gill; Crimestoppers and Sikh community groups have offered rewards for information. Authorities have appealed for anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage to contact police quoting logs 798 (9 September) and 4711 (16 October) or to submit details via the major incident public portal.