POLICE have reopened an investigation into the aggressive rape of a woman five years ago in Brisbane’s West End, which a senior officer called “the worst” he had seen.

The 20-year-old victim suffered severe internal and external injuries after being forced into an alleyway and assaulted on April 15, 2011. She was attacked by two men after walking down Manning Street about 11.30pm to catch a bus home.

Police warned at the time that the pair may have carried out previous attacks and could strike again.

Inspector Rod Kemp said at the time the woman “was aggressively raped in the worst way I have seen in my service” and “animals don’t do that to each other”. CCTV footage, a video re-enactment and e-fits of the two suspects were released but the perpetrators have never been caught.

Police have now launched a review of the case, with detectives from the sex crime unit joining the investigation.

Detective Inspector Garry Watts appealed for the public to come forward with any information as it may all be crucial.

“I think someone knows something and I certainly appeal, if you know something about this incident, please contact the police,” he said.

Det Insp Watts is confident the case can be solved and said forensic evidence will be retested using modern techniques, as well as examining similar offences in the area.

“Particularly the quite vicious and horrific nature of this offence, it was one that stood out back in 2011 and stands out now, means it is certainly one Queensland Police is keen to solve and put the offenders before the courts,” he said.