Detectives are employing advanced DNA genealogy techniques in an effort to identify a suspect in two separate stranger rapes that occurred in southeast London four years apart. The Metropolitan Police have released CCTV footage of a man they wish to question in connection with the assaults, and Crimestoppers is offering a £10,000 reward for information leading to a conviction.
Investigation into Separate Attacks
The first alleged incident took place in May 2020 near the Thames Path in Thamesmead. The second attack occurred on June 19, 2024, in a derelict area of Sewell Road, Abbey Wood. Both locations are in southeast London.
Investigators are utilizing DNA profiles to identify potential relatives of the suspect, a process facilitated by the National Crime Agency. This method allows law enforcement to build a family tree and narrow down the pool of potential suspects.
Police Appeal for Public Assistance
Detective Chief Inspector Zoe Hendrick, who is leading the investigation, highlighted the vulnerability of the victims and the brazen nature of the attacks, which reportedly occurred during daylight hours in residential areas. “This man has targeted two very vulnerable women, raping them in daylight hours in residential areas,” Hendrick stated. “Investigations of this nature are extremely rare and our priority since the launch of the first investigation has been to support the victims and identify the man responsible.”
Hendrick confirmed that previous public appeals, including the release of a CCTV image of a man sought for questioning, had not yet yielded the suspect’s identification. “We are recirculating these images in the hope that someone may recognise him and assist with our inquiries,” she added.
The released CCTV footage shows a man wearing a white vest, jeans, and white trainers, walking along a pavement. Police are urging anyone who recognizes the individual or has any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward. “We’re back here again today, asking (for) further help from the public to come forward and give us any information,” Hendrick implored. “People with circumstances (that) might have changed, or they might feel now that they can divulge information, or they might see this appeal for the first time. I’d just like to encourage anyone to come forward.”
Crimestoppers Offers Reward and Anonymity
Alexa Loukas, regional manager for Greater London at Crimestoppers, emphasized the potential for crucial information to come from the public. “This is a deeply concerning case, and someone may hold information that could make a vital difference,” Loukas said. “Contacting Crimestoppers is completely anonymous: no names, no statement and no court appearance. We don’t want to know who you are, just what you know.”
Crimestoppers is offering a reward of £10,000 for information provided directly to the charity that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspect. This anonymity is intended to encourage individuals who may be hesitant to contact the police directly to share what they know.
How to Provide Information
Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone who recognizes the man in the CCTV footage or possesses any relevant information regarding these incidents is encouraged to:
- Contact the police: Call 101 and cite reference CAD 3842/30JUN2026.
- Tweet the Met: Direct message @MetCC with the reference CAD 3842/30JUN2026.
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously: Call 0800 555 111 or visit their website online. Providing information through Crimestoppers ensures complete anonymity.
The use of DNA genealogy represents a significant advancement in forensic investigation, offering new avenues to solve complex and challenging cases where traditional investigative methods may have reached their limits. The hope is that this cutting-edge approach will help bring the perpetrator to justice and provide closure for the victims, while also preventing further harm.
