Tattooed intruder is hunted after woman raped in her own home

She was attacked at the house in Dalkeith, Midlothian, after visiting pubs on Saturday night.

Detective Chief Inspector Kenny Gray, of Lothian and Borders Police, said: “The victim has suffered a terrifying ordeal at the hands of the suspect and she is currently being cared for by family.”

The woman returned home at about 12:20am on Sunday and the man entered the house shortly afterwards.

The suspect is in his mid-twenties, tanned, with a muscular build and short dark hair.

He has a number of tattoos, including one on his left arm of an animal with distinctive red eyes. He was wearing dark-coloured jeans and a short-sleeved top.

Police want to hear from anyone who saw someone acting suspiciously in Newmills Road, Gibraltar Road or Allan Terrace between midnight and 2am on Sunday, or saw a lone female walking just after midnight in the area.

Mr Gray said: “We know that the victim struggled with the suspect and he may have visible injuries to his face as a result.

“We are appealing to anyone who recognises his description to contact us immediately.”

Detectives said yesterday it was unclear whether the man had broken into the house or entered through an unlocked door or window.

DCI Gray said: “At this time we are appealing to anyone who was in the vicinity of Allan Terrace between 12 midnight and 2am on Sunday morning,  who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area, to contact police.

“We also want anyone who may have noticed a lone female walking in the area of Newmills Road, Gibraltar Road or Allan Terrace just after midnight to get in touch.”

The victim, who is described as 5ft 2in tall with brown hair, was wearing black leggings, a cream top with elbow-length sleeves and white flat shoes.

DCI Gray continued: “At this time I want to reassure people that crimes of this nature are extremely rare in Midlothian, and that we are devoting our full resources towards identifying the suspect. An inquiry team has been established at Dalkeith  Police Station.” ”