By Charlotte Webster-
The Metropolitan Police have launched a CCTV appeal to identify a cyclist in connection with an alleged sexual assault that occurred on October 18, 2023, at approximately 5:30 am in High Street, Stratford.
According to the Met Police, the victim, a woman in her 20s, reported being approached by a man on a bicycle who allegedly grabbed her inappropriately.
When the victim attempted to push the assailant away, he reportedly pulled her towards him and assaulted her again. The woman managed to break free, and the suspect fled on his bike towards Romford Road.
While the victim was not physically injured, the distress caused by the incident has led to ongoing support from specialist officers.
Detective Sam Drury, the investigating officer, revealed that the police have been actively working on several inquiries to locate the suspect. In an effort to aid their investigation, the Met Police has released CCTV footage of the man and is appealing to the public for assistance in identifying him.
The released footage may not be entirely clear, but Detective Drury expressed hope that the distinctive yellow hoodie worn by the suspect might jog someone’s memory if they saw him on the day of the incident or at any other time.
Detective Drury stated: “Nobody should ever have to experience this type of behaviour when walking along the streets of London. We recognize this footage is not completely clear; however, we are hoping his distinctive yellow hoodie may help to jog someone’s memory, should they have seen him on that day, or any other.”
Members of the public who recognize the individual or have any information related to the incident are urged to contact the Metropolitan Police at 101, quoting CAD 2532/18OCT23. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
The CCTV appeal underscores the commitment of law enforcement to address and resolve cases of sexual assault, urging the community’s collaboration to ensure public safety on the streets of London.