16-year-old girl sexually assaulted at Abbey Wood Tube station on 18 July
British Transport Police release CCTV image of suspect and appeal for witnesses
Incident → evidence → outcomeA 16-year-old girl was sexually assaulted at Abbey Wood Tube station on the afternoon of 18 July 2026. The incident occurred after the victim reported being followed from a bus onto an Elizabeth line train, British Transport Police said, as reported by MyLondon.
The girl told police she first noticed a man watching her on a bus to Abbey Wood station at around 12:40 pm. The man followed her off the bus and onto a westbound Elizabeth line service towards Tottenham Court Road. After 25 minutes, he continued to follow her before assaulting her and leaving the station.
Police release CCTV image of suspect
British Transport Police have released a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to in connection with the assault. Detectives believe he may have information that could assist their investigation.
The suspect is described as an older White man with a large build and short grey or white hair. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a yellow short-sleeved shirt, black shorts, and black trainers. He was also carrying black sunglasses in the chest pocket of his shirt.
How to contact police
Anyone who recognises the man in the CCTV image is asked to contact British Transport Police immediately. Witnesses can text 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 119 of 9 July. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The investigation is ongoing, and police have not confirmed whether any arrests have been made. It is unclear if the suspect has any prior connection to the victim or the area.
What happens next
British Transport Police will continue to review CCTV footage and pursue leads from the public. Residents in Abbey Wood and surrounding areas are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to police.
Questions this report answers
01What happened at Abbey Wood Tube station on 18 July 2026?
A 16-year-old girl was sexually assaulted after being followed from a bus onto an Elizabeth line train. The incident occurred at Abbey Wood Tube station in the early afternoon. Police are investigating and have released a CCTV image of a suspect.
02What does the suspect look like?
The suspect is described as an older White man with short grey or white hair and a large build. He was wearing a yellow short-sleeved shirt, black shorts, black trainers, and carrying black sunglasses in his shirt pocket at the time of the incident.
03How can I contact police if I have information?
Anyone with information can contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 119 of 9 July. Reports can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
04Has anyone been arrested in connection with the assault?
British Transport Police have not confirmed whether any arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing, and police are appealing for witnesses to come forward with information.
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