6-Year-Old Girl Lured Away From Playground, Sexually Assaulted In Woods Allegedly By 16-Year-Old

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested after he allegedly lured a 6-year-old girl away from a playground and sexually assaulted her in a wooded area.

The incident took place at a park in Birmingham, England, on Saturday afternoon. The victim was with her family when the accused allegedly lured her into a wooded area. The girl told her mother about the incident while they were returning from the park. She immediately filed a police complaint, Birmingham Mail reported.

The accused was described as a boy aged between 12 and 16 with blond hair. He was wearing a blue jacket and jeans during the alleged assault. The teen was traced and taken into custody the same night.

"A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault. Earlier today, we appealed for your help after a child reported a sexual assault in Rowheath Park, Birmingham at around midday on September 18. The six-year-old girl was with her family on the playground when she was momentarily lured into a nearby wooded area. The boy was arrested earlier in Birmingham, he's in our custody for questioning," police said in a statement, Coventry Telegraph reported.

"Our investigation is ongoing and we continue to support the little girl and her family. They have, of course, been kept updated with this development," the statement added.

Security has been increased in the area where the alleged assault took place. Police have asked people visiting the park to be "aware and alert."

"This arrest is a significant development as our investigation continues at pace. I'd still urge anyone with any information, who hasn't yet contacted us, to do as soon as possible. There have been lots of comments on social media. I thank people for sharing our appeal, and those who got in touch with information. However I'd ask that people do not speculate on the circumstances, it's unhelpful to our investigation and distressing for those involved," said Detective Inspector Matt Stone.