Manhunt after woman sexually assaulted in West Barnes, Sutton

A manhunt is underway after a woman was sexually assaulted in West Barnes, Sutton, shortly before midnight on Thursday 29 August 2024. The Metropolitan Police have described the attack as serious and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Suspect description and police appeal

The suspect is described as approximately 5ft 9in tall, around 30 years old, with brown, medium to long hair and brown eyes. He was wearing jeans, a black padded coat, black trainers, and a belt with a gold buckle. Police said he was riding a pedal-assisted e-bike fitted with a green and black delivery box on the rear and was wearing a white helmet.

DCI Rebecca Roberts, who leads the rape and serious sexual assault teams in southwest London, said the suspect may speak with an accent and could be of West Asian or Eastern European heritage. She urged anyone who saw anything unusual near Meadowsweet Close or the nearby playing fields to contact police.

Increased police presence and community reassurance

The Metropolitan Police confirmed there would be an increased presence of officers in the West Barnes area while they carry out urgent enquiries. No arrests have been made at this stage.

DCI Roberts acknowledged the concern such incidents cause within communities. She said additional officers are being deployed to provide reassurance and support to local residents.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police or Crimestoppers anonymously. Police are particularly interested in any sightings of the suspect or his e-bike in the area around the time of the assault.

What happens next

The investigation is ongoing, and police have not released further details about the victim or the circumstances of the assault. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.