Detectives have released CCTV images of two men in connection with the alleged rape of a 13-year-old girl in an east London park, as a £10,000 reward is offered for information leading to arrests. The Metropolitan Police said the attack took place in the Bethnal Green area more than two years ago, and the victim's family has spoken of their ongoing fear.
Investigation timeline and alleged attack details
Scotland Yard launched an investigation at around 11.30pm on Thursday, 1 August 2024, after receiving a report that a 13-year-old girl had been raped. According to the Met, the victim reported seeing two men on Whitechapel Road, and it is alleged she was taken from that road into Weavers Fields, approximately a 15-minute walk away, where she was raped. A member of the public later found the girl and helped her.
Detectives have conducted extensive inquiries since 2024, including reviewing CCTV footage, carrying out forensic examinations, and speaking with potential witnesses. Officers are now releasing images of two men they want to trace.
Family describes devastating impact
In a statement, the victim's family said: “Our daughter continues to live in fear for her safety and no longer feels comfortable being on her own. Wherever possible, we accompany her because she simply doesn’t feel safe without us.”
“She should be enjoying her teenage years, spending time with friends, growing in confidence and looking forward to the future. Instead, so much of that has been taken away from her as a result of this incident,” the family added. “While we have done everything we can to support her and stay strong as a family, the impact has been devastating. This has affected all of us in ways that are difficult to put into words.”
Police and Crimestoppers urge public to come forward
Detective Chief Inspector Anna Deighton, who is leading the investigation, said: “This was an awful attack on a teenage girl who was targeted and subjected to sexual violence. Two years on, our inquiries into this investigation are continuing. If you recognise the men in the CCTV we have released with this appeal, please come forward and speak to us.”
Crimestoppers is offering the £10,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Alexa Loukas, regional manager for London at Crimestoppers, said: “The impact of this horrific crime continues to be felt by the victim and her family two years on. No young person should have to live in fear or have their sense of safety and freedom taken away from them as a result of such a devastating attack.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting reference 01/668295/24, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website.
