There has been a massive response to a garda appeal for information following a serious sex assault in Dublin city.

A woman in her 20s with special needs was out jogging with her mother at around 4pm on Wednesday when they became separated. It is understood she was approached by a man on the South Circular Road near Leonard's Corner and taken back to a house in the area.

The alarm was raised a short time later after she managed to make her way home. Gardai are following a number of lines of inquiry and are continuing to appeal for the public's help.

Anyone with information is asked contact officers at Kevin Street on 01-666-9400.

Security Editor with the Irish Independent is Tom Brady. He says house to house enquires are also taking place.