DETECTIVES have launched an investigation after a woman claimed she was sexually assaulted after being bundled into a car.

The 26-year-old woman says she was walking along Hammond Hill, Chatham, when she was grabbed by the men who were in a red four-door vehicle.

She was then allegedly driven round parts of Chatham and Rochester in a terrifying 90-minute ordeal. The alleged incident happened at about 2.30am on Friday.

Police were alerted shortly after 4am and cordoned off parts of Star Hill to look for evidence as rush hour traffic began to build up.

The woman, who lives in Chatham, told police she was driven to Esplanade, near Castle Hill, and subjected to a sexual assault.

The attackers then dumped the victim at Castle Hill before making off towards Rochester Bridge.

A nearby resident who didn't want to be named said: "I was driving my son to work this morning as he works near the High Street.

"As we came down City Way I noticed that part of Star Hill had been cordoned off and a police car guarding the area."

A spokesman for Medway Police said: "It is important we identify the two men driving the car.

"Although it was late at night there may have been motorists driving in the area who may have seen the red car at any of the different locations that have been mentioned.

"If anyone saw anything we would appeal for them to come forward and contact us as soon as possible."

Anyone who saw anything or who has information in connection with this incident should contact Medway police on 01634 884252 or Crimestoppers in total confidence on 0800 555 111.