Members of the public stepped in to help victim as police launch investigation
A woman was punched in the face by a man who sexually assaulted her on an Elizabeth line train travelling through east London, British Transport Police have confirmed.
The disturbing incident occurred on 16 May aboard a service running between Stratford and Forest Gate in the borough of Newham. Officers said the man sat down next to the victim and subjected her to an unprovoked sexual assault.
When the woman shouted at him to stop, he responded violently by striking her in the face.
In a statement, a British Transport Police spokesperson said: “The woman shouted at him to stop, and he hit her in the face. Members of the public intervened by pushing the man away, and he left the train at Forest Gate station.”
It is understood the woman was left shaken by the incident, though her injuries were not life-threatening. Police commended the quick actions of fellow passengers who stepped in to help.
In an effort to identify the suspect, BTP have now released CCTV images of a man they wish to speak to in connection with the incident. He is described as wearing a cream-coloured gilet over a black jumper and blue jeans at the time of the assault.
“The man pictured may have information vital to our investigation,” police added. “We are urging anyone who recognises him or who may have witnessed what happened to get in touch as soon as possible.”
Authorities are treating the incident as a sexual assault and assault by beating, and say the investigation remains ongoing.
British Transport Police are appealing to the public for help identifying the man and are encouraging anyone with information, however small, to come forward.
Commuters who may have been travelling on the same service or witnessed the man boarding or exiting the train at either Stratford or Forest Gate stations are particularly urged to contact officers.
The case highlights renewed concern around passenger safety on London’s public transport network, particularly in the wake of rising reports of sexual harassment and violence on trains and buses.
Transport for London (TfL) has recently stepped up efforts to reassure passengers with increased patrols, poster campaigns, and dedicated reporting channels encouraging victims and witnesses to come forward. TfL’s “zero tolerance” approach to sexual harassment is part of its broader strategy to improve the safety and confidence of women and girls using public transport.
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In response to this incident, TfL said it was supporting the investigation and working closely with police.
Anyone who recognises the man in the released images is urged to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 727 of 16 May.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers by phoning 0800 555 111.
British Transport Police reiterated their commitment to making the rail network a safe place for everyone, urging passengers to report any suspicious behaviour immediately via their text service or in person to station staff and officers.
“We understand incidents like this are incredibly distressing,” said the BTP spokesperson. “No one should have to experience sexual assault or violence on public transport. We will continue to do everything we can to bring offenders to justice and support victims.”
The investigation continues.
