Appeal Launched After Shocking Tube Assaults
The British Transport Police (BTP) have released CCTV images and are appealing to the public for help in identifying a man wanted in connection with two unprovoked attacks on women on the London Underground's Central line.
The incidents occurred on the afternoon of Tuesday, 11 November, with both assaults taking place within minutes of each other. Officers believe the same man is responsible for both attacks.
Details of the Central Line Assaults
The first assault took place at around 3pm at Marble Arch station. A woman was walking down the escalator when a man approached and slapped her across the face. The assailant then subjected her to a torrent of verbal abuse before boarding a westbound Central line train.
Minutes later, a second incident was reported. A mother, who was with her children, was approached by the same man as they reached Lancaster Gate station. In a nearly identical pattern, the man shouted at her and then smacked her.
The BTP has confirmed that both women are being supported by specialist officers as their enquiries continue.
Description of the Person of Interest
Police have described the man they wish to speak to as a muscular Black man with shoulder-length black locs. In the CCTV images released by the force, he is seen wearing a white vest.
A statement from the BTP read: "Violent offences, especially those targeting women and girls, will absolutely not be tolerated and we will do everything we can to identify offenders and bring them to justice." The force added that they believe the man in the image could have information that may assist their enquiries.
How You Can Help the Police Enquiry
This appeal comes amidst growing concern over safety on public transport, following a separate incident days earlier where a woman was sexually assaulted by a stranger on the Elizabeth line.
Anyone who recognises the man in the images is urged to contact the British Transport Police immediately. You can text 61016, quoting the reference number 402 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.
