Police seek woman over attempted abduction at West Ham Tube station
A seven-year-old girl was approached by a woman who said she wanted to 'grab' her.
Incident → evidence → outcomeOfficers from British Transport Police (BTP) are seeking to identify a woman in connection with an attempted abduction at West Ham Underground station. The incident took place around 8:30pm on Thursday, October 15. A seven-year-old girl was approached by a woman while she was with her father.
According to police, the woman told the young girl she intended to 'grab' her and attempted to take her hand. The girl's father intervened, and the woman then told bystanders that the father was kidnapping his own daughter. Following this, the woman left the station.
Appeal for information
Detective Constable Chris Petty, who is leading the investigation for BTP, stated that reports of this nature are concerning and assured the public that efforts are being made to identify the individual involved. Police have released CCTV images of a woman they wish to speak with, believing she may possess information crucial to the ongoing inquiry.
Anyone who recognises the woman pictured is asked to text her name to 61016, quoting reference number 108 of October 16.
Questions this report answers
01What happened at West Ham Tube station?
On October 15, a woman approached a seven-year-old girl and her father at West Ham Underground station. The woman told the girl she wanted to 'grab' her and tried to hold her hand. She also falsely accused the father of kidnapping the child before leaving the station.
02When did the incident occur?
The incident took place on Thursday, October 15, at approximately 8:30pm. British Transport Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the event.
03How can the public help the police?
British Transport Police are seeking to identify a woman seen in CCTV images. Anyone who recognises the woman is encouraged to text her name to 61016, using reference number 108 of October 16, to assist the investigation.
Support is available without a police report
Find London services, specialist support and the rights set out in the Victims’ Code. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Find victim supportSend a correction or case update
If a hearing, charge or outcome has changed, send the court, case number and source document so we can update the record.
Contact the deskContinue the investigation
Transport CrimeCroydon Council to boost patrols after bus driver complaints over illegal parking
Transport CrimeW19 bus hits car and shop in Walthamstow
Transport CrimeTower Hamlets issues nearly 1,000 fines for obstructive e-bikes