A woman was heard screaming for help on Brighton seafront but had disappeared by the time the police arrived.
Now officers are appealing for anyone who saw or heard anything that might help them to solve the mystery to come forward.
Sussex Police said this afternoon (Wednesday 28 December): “Shortly after 12.30am on Friday (23 December) police went to a driveway near the junction of Marine Parade and Marine Square, Brighton, after it was reported that a woman had been heard near by screaming for help.
“A search was made and, though no one was seen, items were found which suggested that some sort of disturbance may have occurred.
“Only one call concerning screams in the area was received and now officers are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious.
“If you were in the area at the time and witnessed the incident, please email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting serial 36 of 23/12.
“You can also report online to https://sussex.police.uk/contact-us/response-to-appeal/ or call 101.
“Another alternative is to contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 (www.crimestoppers-uk.org).”