Manhunt Underway for Joseph McCann Over Shocking Abductions and Rapes
Police have named 33-year-old Joseph McCann as the prime suspect in the terrifying abduction and rape of two women in April. Detectives are urging the public to help track down this dangerous fugitive.
Brutal Attacks Across Multiple Towns
The horrific offences took place on Sunday, 28 April, following two separate abduction incidents. The first victim was snatched from a street in Chingford around 12:30am. Roughly 12 hours later, the second woman was taken from Edgware at 12:15pm.
Both women were driven to a Watford hotel where the suspect tried to book a room. When no rooms were available, he left. Around 2:30pm, on Osborne Road in Watford, the women fought back and managed to escape after a struggle, leaving McCann on the run.
Who Is Joseph McCann?
- Age: 33
- Height: 5ft 10in
- Build: Muscular
- Eyes: Blue
- Hair: Bald or shaved blond
- Beard: Light-coloured short beard
- Accent: Slight Irish
- Distinctive tattoo: The name “bobbie” on his stomach
- Known to use false names, most recently “Joel”
- Linked to Watford (Herts), Aylesbury (Bucks), and Ipswich (Suffolk)
Detectives warn McCann may try to disguise himself and are urging caution.
Silver Ford S-Max with Fake Plates Connected to Case
Officers are hunting for a silver or grey Ford S-Max people carrier involved in the crimes. The vehicle is believed to have false registration plates. Any information about this car could be crucial to the investigation.
Police Plea: Don’t Approach—Call 999
“We would ask anyone with any information about McCann’s whereabouts to contact us immediately – McCann is considered extremely dangerous and a risk to the public and we ask people not to approach him, but instead call 999,” said Detective Chief Inspector Katherine Goodwin.
“If you wish to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers. It is vitally important we trace him in connection with these offences.”
The two women, both in their 20s, are receiving specialist support after the trauma. Police are treating the attacks as random but linked and the Homicide and Major Crime Command is leading the investigation, supported by Hertfordshire Constabulary and local officers.
A 33-year-old man arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to rape was released under investigation. Now the hunt intensifies for Joseph McCann.
If you have any information, call the incident room on 020 8785 8244 or dial 999 quoting CAD 3041/25Apr. You can also tweet @MetCC or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
