Three wanted men linked to London crimes including rape and murder

Three men with links to London are being sought by police for serious crimes, including rape, murder and drug trafficking. Alexandru Oprea, Pierre Thompson and Reece Westley Jillings are among those on the Crimestoppers most wanted list as of August 2026.

Convicted rapist sentenced in absence

Alexandru Oprea was sentenced to more than 11 years in prison in June 2026 after being convicted of rape, sexual assaults, indecent exposure and other offences. The crimes took place in Essex in 2023. Oprea failed to attend his trial and is now wanted by police.

Oprea, who has links to London, Leicester and Romania, has distinctive sleeve-style tattoos on both arms, his chest and his stomach. His victim said she had waited three years for justice and was struggling to cope after the sentencing. She described Oprea as someone who "does not deserve to be free with no consequences."

Murder suspect sought in Stonebridge shooting

Pierre Thompson, 41, is wanted by police investigating the murder of Simon Whyte, 55, who was shot on Harrow Road in Stonebridge at approximately 9.35pm on 19 December 2025. The case remains unsolved six months after the killing.

Detective Inspector Jim Barry, who is leading the investigation, said Whyte’s family and friends were still coming to terms with their loss and were desperate for answers. He urged anyone with information about Thompson’s whereabouts to contact police or Crimestoppers immediately.

Drug conspiracy suspect linked to Met Police operation

Reece Westley Jillings is wanted on suspicion of conspiracy to import and supply cocaine as part of the Metropolitan Police’s Operation Detox. Jillings, who is in his 40s and has a "croaky London accent," is approximately 5ft 8in tall.

Crimestoppers, which collates appeals from police forces across the UK, has urged the public not to approach any of the wanted individuals. Instead, they should call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or contact police on 101.

What happens next

Police investigations into the whereabouts of Oprea, Thompson and Jillings are ongoing. Residents in Barnet and across London are being asked to remain vigilant and report any sightings to authorities. No further court dates have been set for the cases.