Detectives investigating the rape of a 13-year-old girl in Bethnal Green have released CCTV images of two men they want to speak to as a £10,000 reward is offered for information.
The Metropolitan Police investigation began at around 11.30pm on Thursday, 1 August 2024, after the girl reported being raped.
Police said the victim had seen two men on Whitechapel Road before they led her into Weavers Fields, where she was raped.
She was later found by a member of the public who came to her aid.
Detectives have spent the period since the attack reviewing CCTV, carrying out forensic examinations and speaking with potential witnesses. Officers have also remained in contact with the girl and her family and say specialist support and safeguarding measures have been provided.
Police have now released images of two men they want to trace and speak to in connection with the investigation.
Independent charity Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
‘Our daughter continues to live in fear’
The girl’s family described the continuing impact of the attack, saying: “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.
“While we have done everything we can to support her and stay strong as a family, the impact has been devastating.”
They urged anyone with information, however small, to contact investigators.
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 enquiries 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.
“If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, it is vital you get in touch.”
Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting reference 01/668295/24.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through Crimestoppers.
