Appeal to identify man in connection with rape investigation

Detectives investigating the alleged rape of a man in Earl's Court are appealing for the public's help to identify a man captured on CCTV.

At around 00:10hrs on Friday, 4 October, the victim, aged in his 30s, was in Hesper Mews, off Bramham Gardens, when he was approached by another man.

That man, the suspect, was riding a bike with a food delivery bag on his back.

He is described as being aged in his 20s, white, with dark hair and a distinctive large angular nose. He was wearing all black clothing.

The victim and the suspect spoke for a few minutes, after which it is alleged that the victim was raped. He is being supported by specialist officers.

The suspect left the scene shortly afterwards, cycling out of Hesper Mews and turning left into Bramham Gardens.

Detectives have now released a CCTV image of the man they wish to trace inside a nearby shop and are urging anyone who recognises him to come forward.

They are also appealing for anyone who lives in Hesper Mews, or who was there in the early hours of Friday, 4 October, to think carefully about whether they might have seen or heard anything unusual.

Anyone who has CCTV or doorbell cameras and who hasn't yet spoken to officers is asked to check them to make sure nothing of note has been captured.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or message @MetCC on X, giving the reference number 01/933502/24.

Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.