Detectives hunt suspect in string of '22 linked sexual assaults' in East London
16 June 2022, 06:54 | Updated: 16 June 2022, 07:00
Police have released an e-fit image of a suspect they are working to identify after a series of linked sexual offences in east London.
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The alleged incidents occurred between February and June in the Hackney Marshes area of the capital.
In each, the description of the suspect and his actions have been very similar.
Lone women have been out either walking or jogging when they have been approached by a male on a bicycle.
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They said he grabbed their buttocks from behind, or touched their genitals, before making inappropriate comments and cycling off.
Detectives have so far received 22 reports of assaults but suspect there could be more.
They are urging any women who have not yet spoken to police to come forward.
The suspect is described as light skinned male, possibly mixed race, aged 16/17, who is usually wearing a grey tracksuit.
Detective Constable Hannah Rodericks of the Central East Command Unit, who is investigating, said they were doing "everything we can" to identify the individual and urged the public to come forward with any information.
"I understand this news may cause considerable concern among the community," she said.
"We in the Central East Command Unit share that concern and are doing everything we can to identify and bring to justice the person responsible.
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"It is imperative that he is identified but we need the public's help.
"Anyone who has information that they think can help us is urged to make contact immediately."
Anyone who has information that could help police should call 101 ref 4216097/22.
Alternatively they can tweet @MetCC, or to remain 100% anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
