Police Release Video in Hunt for Forest Gate Rape Suspect
Detectives have dropped CCTV footage of a man they want to question over a shocking rape in Forest Gate.
Woman Attacked in Secluded Park Late at Night
The attack happened around 10.30pm on 31 August 2020 in Forest Lane Park, E15. The woman was sitting on a bench when she was grabbed from behind, dragged to the ground, and assaulted.
The park sits between Maryland and Forest Gate stations, just off Forest Lane. It was closed at the time. Police believe the victim climbed over a fence before being followed by her attacker.
Sought Suspect Spotted at Off Licence Before Attack
Earlier that evening, the victim and suspect spoke and later visited a nearby off licence on Wellington Road at 10.10pm. CCTV from the shop shows the man wearing black jogging bottoms, a grey zipped hoodie over a white t-shirt, and carrying a black sling bag across his chest.
- Described as Black, about 5ft 11, large build
- In his early 20s
- Believed to be from Gambia and possibly spent time in France
Police Plea: “If That’s You, Come Forward”
“This was a shocking attack in an isolated location, late at night, that left the victim understandably distressed. We are determined to find the person responsible and are pursuing all possible lines of enquiry,” said Detective Constable Philip Blore.
“We think someone out there may have seen the man in the footage, either during the incident or at another time. If you have any information, no matter how small, please contact us.”
“If you’re the man in the video, please come forward so we can speak with you.”
How to Help
If you recognise the man or have any info, call 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting CAD7995/31AUG. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
