British Transport Police are searching for a couple suspected of a racially aggravated assault at a central London Underground station, who are now believed to have fled the United Kingdom.
The Assault at Bond Street Station
The incident occurred at the entrance to Bond Street Tube station at approximately 7:30pm on October 11. According to police, a man and a woman were walking in front of a family when the woman collided with a pushchair carrying one of the family's two young children.
Officers state that the man then began shouting racial abuse at the victim, who was with her sister and children. The situation escalated when the female suspect allegedly grabbed the victim's hair.
When the victim tried to defend herself, the male suspect is reported to have produced a small bottle, claimed it was pepper spray, and then sprayed it in the direction of the victim and her family.
International Manhunt Underway
Following the altercation, both groups left the scene. The female suspect reportedly continued shouting abuse and making lewd gestures as they departed.
After releasing images of the couple and issuing a public appeal to identify them, the British Transport Police now believe the pair have left the country. A force spokesperson confirmed that the man is thought to have departed the UK on October 14, with the woman following on October 24.
Significantly, these departures occurred before the police released their media appeal to the public. Officers stated they believe the man and woman "do not reside in the UK".
Ongoing Investigation and Victim Support
Despite the suspects' apparent flight, the investigation remains active. A BTP spokesperson said: "We continue efforts to make contact with and speak to them, and from there we will determine the next steps in the investigation."
The police have maintained contact with the victim and her family, providing them with regular updates as the case progresses.
