Anna Lo MLA said: “It is very disturbing that something as horrendous as this could happen right in the middle of the city centre.
“I recently brought the issue of sexual assaults in South Belfast to the floor of the Assembly. There appears to be a pattern of attacks in the area over recent months. This latest incident further highlights the need for the police and other agencies to take a joined-up approach tackle this issue.
“There is a need to change the mindset of some people and the way in which they view and treat women.
“My thoughts are with this young woman and I hope that she will make a speedy recovery after her ordeal.
“Given that attack took place in such a built up area, someone may have witnessed something that could help police catch the perpetrator. I urge anybody who was in the area at the time or has any information about the assault to contact police immediately.”
ENDS