A female councillor in her 40s was reportedly assaulted while confronting two men hanging flags along the A259 in Seaford, Sussex. According to The Argus, a verbal argument ensued between the councillor and the men, leading to the woman being forcibly pushed to the ground by the duo.
Following the incident which occurred around 9 pm on Monday, Sussex Police initiated an investigation into the assault. A 29-year-old male from Peacehaven was apprehended on suspicion of assault and subsequently released on bail. Authorities are actively seeking the second individual involved.
Lewes District Council has confirmed the victim as a current council member. A council representative stated, “This incident, involving our district councillor, is being handled by the police and no further remarks will be provided.”
Sussex Police released a statement saying, “An investigation is ongoing regarding the assault of a woman in her 40s from Seaford, allegedly pushed to the ground by two men on Sutton Park Road on Monday, October 13.”
“A 29-year-old male from Peacehaven was taken into custody in connection with the assault and has been released on bail. Efforts are underway to locate the second suspect,” the statement continued.
Authorities urge any witnesses to come forward with any CCTV, dashcam, or mobile phone recordings of the incident. Information can be shared with the police online or by calling 101, referencing serial number 1350 of 13/10.
Recent months have seen an increase in St George’s flags displayed nationwide as part of Operation Raise the Colours, a movement gaining momentum across the country.