British Transport Police have launched an urgent hunt for a man who dragged a woman to the floor and attempted to rape her on a Bakerloo line Tube train. The attack occurred late on Saturday night, shortly before midnight, as the train travelled between Waterloo and Lambeth North stations.
Details of the Attack
According to police, the suspect approached a lone woman on the train and exposed himself to her. He then forcibly pulled her from her seat onto the floor, where he tried to rape her. The victim fought back and managed to flee the carriage when the train stopped at Lambeth North station. She immediately alerted Tube staff.
The attacker remained on the train and alighted at Elephant and Castle Underground station. Officers have been tracking his movements and believe he was also at Oxford Circus before the attack and at Piccadilly Circus Underground station afterward.
Police Appeal for Information
Detective Sergeant Krishan Appannah said: 'Our officers are supporting the victim following this horrific incident. We understand incidents of this nature are deeply concerning for the public and we’re appealing to them directly to help us identify the man in the CCTV footage. One line of enquiry is that he may be homeless.'
British Transport Police have released images of a man they are working to identify. They are urging anyone who recognises him to text his name to 61016, quoting reference 948 of 11 July. 'He may have vital information that could assist our ongoing investigation,' added DS Appannah.
Ongoing Investigation
The victim is being supported by specially trained officers. The investigation continues as police work to trace the suspect. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact British Transport Police.
