Police are investigating reports that an 18-year-old woman was seriously sexually assaulted in east Belfast.
The attack is alleged to have taken place on the Upper Newtownards Road close to the Belmont Church Road on Saturday.
The incident was reported to police shortly before midnight on Saturday.
Detectives said they want anybody who saw anything suspicious in the area between 9.30pm and 11.30pm to contact them.
Belfast's mayor has appealed for the public to help the police investigation.
"People in the locality are shocked that something like this has happened here and they hope that the police catch the thug involved in this attack as quickly as possible", Naomi Long said.
"Anyone who can help police with their investigation has a duty to the public to do so."
A PSNI spokesman said: "Anyone with information is asked to contact Detectives at the Rape Crime Unit, Ladas Drive on 028 90 700 305.
"Alternatively, information about crime can be passed anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity by calling 0800 555 111."
© UTV News