CCTV Appeal Launched After Vaping Dispute Turns Violent
The British Transport Police (BTP) have issued an urgent public appeal for help identifying a man after a dispute over vaping on the London Underground escalated into a vicious assault, leaving a passenger with a fractured cheekbone and a broken eye socket.
The Shocking Sequence of Events
The incident began at approximately 6.40pm on November 11 aboard a District line train departing from Sloane Square. According to police, a man in his 40s challenged a stranger who was vaping on the train. This confrontation sparked an argument that continued as both individuals got off the train at Westminster station.
The situation turned violently physical on the platform. The suspect punched the victim in the face with such force that it resulted in serious facial injuries. The attack caused a fractured cheekbone and a broken eye socket, injuries so severe that the victim required surgery. Police have confirmed that the victim's vision has also been damaged as a result of the shocking assault.
Can You Help Identify This Man?
Officers have released CCTV images of a person of interest they need to speak to urgently. The footage shows a White man with short black hair, who is believed to be in his late teens to early twenties. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black puffer jacket and grey trousers.
In a statement, the BTP said: "Officers would like to speak to the man pictured as they believe he may have information that could help with their investigation." The public is urged to come forward with any information.
How to Contact Investigators
Anyone who recognises the man in the images is asked to contact the British Transport Police immediately. You can help the investigation by:
- Texting 61016
- Calling 0800 40 50 40
When contacting the BTP, please quote reference number 613 of 11 November. For those who wish to remain anonymous, information can be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.
This appeal follows another recent incident reported by MyLondon, where a train guard was assaulted while trying to stop a fight at Birmingham International station, highlighting concerns over transport safety.
