Police investigating the rape of a teenager in east Belfast have arrested a 21-year-old man.
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The 19-year-old victim was walking along the Newtownards Road when she was attacked from behind and dragged into an alleyway and subjected to a serious sexual assault.
The PSNI said the attack happened on waste land behind a pub on Newtownards Road, close to Dee Street, shortly before 5.30am.
"The woman has received medical attention to her injuries," said a police spokeswoman.
A forensic team examined the scene on Saturday.
Police also appealed for a taxi driver to come forward as a possible witness.
He picked up a young woman in pyjamas and a coat close to MacDonald's on the Newtownards Road shortly before the attack and dropped her off at a convenience store.
Local DUP MLA Robin Newton said he was outraged by the attack.
"It's an absolute despicable crime. It's a crime of violence against a young lady, a crime that she didn't have responsibility for and indeed those who engage in such crimes deserve to be condemned by every member of society", he told UTV.
"I would ask young people, particularly ladies, not to be isolated on their own, not to be separated from their friends."
Belfast Lord Mayor Naomi Long said it was appalling that a woman could be attacked on one of the busiest roads in east Belfast.
"The woman who was attacked is in my thoughts and prayers at this most traumatic of times. One can hardly imagine the horrific impact an ordeal like this can have on someone", she said.
"This vile attack took place early in the morning, but I would hope that someone who was driving past at that time may have seen something that could assist police"
© UTV News