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Arrest over shocking laneway attack in North Melbourne

Arrest over shocking laneway attack in North Melbourne

Police have arrested a 28-year-old Reservoir man after a young mum was dragged into a laneway and sexually assaulted in North Melbourne.

The 28-year-old man was arrested on Saturday, interviewed and released without charge as the investigation continues, a police spokeswoman said.

The victim gave birth two months ago and was out in the city for the first time with her friends when a stranger started following her on her walk home alone in the early hours of Sunday, June 30.

Police say the man stalked her for about a kilometre into North Melbourne, then dragged her into a laneway where she was punched, kicked and sexually assaulted.

Her screams alerted nearby residents, prompting the man to flee with her handbag.

Detectives released CCTV footage last week of a person of interest in the attack.

The investigation continues.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.