Police Hunt Man in Connection with Three Shocking Sexual Attacks in South East London
Detectives from the Met’s South East Command Unit are probing three separate sexual assaults that rocked the area. Two of the attacks, linked by officers, happened in the early hours on Saturday, 9 March, and Sunday, 2 June. A third attack came just days later on Friday, 7 June.
CCTV Image Released of Man on Bike
Police have released a CCTV image of a man on a bike, spotted in SE10 on 2 June. The grainy footage shows a male carrying an oversized bag, possibly a rucksack, as he cycles along. Officers urgently want to identify him to aid their investigation.
Details of the Attacks
- 9 March: A woman in her 50s was attacked on Blackheath Common around 4.30am. She spotted a man sitting on a bench with a bike. As she approached, he grabbed her, pushed her to the ground, and tried to rape her before cycling off.
- 2 June: At 2am, a woman in her 20s was raped on a footbridge near Tunnel Avenue, SE10. Her attacker was described as carrying a large, zippered rucksack, possibly khaki or dark in colour, and fled on a bike.
- 7 June: A woman in her 40s was grabbed from behind and assaulted in Margaret McMillan Park, SE8. She fought off her attacker, who stole cash from her jacket before escaping towards Douglas Way.
Man Arrested as Police Pursue More Leads
A man in his late 20s has been arrested and remains in custody in connection with all three attacks. Detective Chief Inspector Angela Craggs said:
“We have a dedicated operation focused on finding whoever is behind these horrific offences. Stranger attacks are rare, but we urge people to stay alert, not alarmed. The first two offences are linked, and the third may also be connected.”
She added: “If you recognise the man in the CCTV image or have any information about these incidents, please come forward immediately. We’re also aware there may be other victims who haven’t spoken to police yet – your information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and support is available.”
How to Help
If you have information, contact the South East Safeguarding Team on 0208 284 8461, referencing Operation Ladoga. To give details anonymously, call 0800 555 111.
Police have increased patrols in the affected areas to reassure residents and catch the culprit.
