British Transport Police are appealing for the public’s help in identifying a man following two separate sexual assaults at an East London Underground station during the morning rush hour.
The incidents took place at Wanstead station on the Central line at around 6.30am on 11 February. According to officers, a man initially directed sexual remarks at a woman on the platform before going on to assault her. He then sexually assaulted a second woman at the same location shortly afterwards.
Detectives have since released a CCTV image of a man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries. Officers are also keen to trace a woman who is thought to have witnessed one or both of the assaults and have yet to come forward.
“Officers would like to speak to the man pictured, as they believe he may have information that could help their investigation,” British Transport Police said in a statement. “They are also urging a woman who is believed to have witnessed the incidents, or anyone who saw what occurred, to come forward.”
Anyone who recognises the man in the image is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016, or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 73 of 11 February. Those wishing to pass on information anonymously can do so via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Separately, British Transport Police are also investigating a sexual assault on board a Victoria line service on 21 February. That incident occurred at approximately 10.30am as the southbound train approached Green Park station. A man is alleged to have assaulted a woman while standing directly behind her in the carriage. Officers have released a further CCTV image in connection with that case and are again appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
The two investigations are being treated as separate matters, though both form part of a broader effort by British Transport Police to tackle sexual offences on the London Underground network. Wanstead station, located in the London Borough of Redbridge, serves a significant volume of commuter traffic during morning peak hours.
Detectives have not confirmed whether the incidents are linked and enquiries are continuing. Members of the public with information relating to either case are encouraged to make contact through the details provided.
