British Transport Police are appealing for information after a woman allegedly tried to grab a seven-year-old girl at West Ham underground station before claiming the girl's father was kidnapping her.
The incident happened at around 8.30pm on October 15. The woman approached the girl, who was with her father, and began engaging with her, telling her she wanted to "grab" her. She then made attempts to hold the girl's hand.
Father accused of kidnapping
As the father moved away from the woman, she told bystanders that he was kidnapping the girl before fleeing the station.
The police have released two images of a person they would like to speak to as part of their investigation.
Police appeal for information
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.
