British Transport Police (BTP) detectives are investigating a 'concerning' attempted kidnap of a seven-year-old girl at West Ham Underground station in London. Officers have released CCTV images of a woman they want to identify, believing she may have vital information to assist their investigation.
Incident at West Ham station
The incident took place on Thursday, October 15, at about 8.30pm. A woman approached the girl, who was with her father, and began talking to her. She told the child she wanted to "grab" her before attempting to hold her hand.
As the father took his daughter away, the woman tried to tell bystanders that he was actually kidnapping the girl. She then ran away from the scene.
CCTV appeal and description
The woman pictured in the CCTV stills is white with blonde hair and was wearing a baseball cap. She was dressed in an all-black outfit, and her jacket had a distinctive inverted triangle on the shoulder. She also appeared to be holding a bottle of wine.
Police statement and contact details
BTP Detective Constable Chris Petty said: "We appreciate reports of this nature are concerning and I would like to reassure the public that we are doing all we can to identify the woman in question.
"We're keen to speak to the person in the images who may have vital information that could assist our ongoing investigation. If you recognise her, please text her name to 61016 quoting reference 108 of 16 October."
Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
