Image released as investigation into Newham Pride flag vandalism continues

Detectives who are investigating a linked series of homophobic hate crimes in Newham have released an image of a person they would like to speak to.

Police were called early in the morning of Sunday, 23 June after a large painted Pride flag on the pavement outside Forest Gate Railway Station, in Woodgrange Road, E7, had been vandalised.

A further report was made on the morning of Wednesday, 26 June regarding criminal damage to two other flags at the same location.

All three flags were damaged with red paint.

Detective Inspector James Rush from the North East area’s Public Protection team, who is leading the investigation, said: “We believe that the same person committed these offences, which we now know took place at between 05:00hrs and 05:30 on Sunday, 23 June and at about the same time on Wednesday, 26 June.

“As our investigation continues at pace, we have today issued an image of a person we would like to speak to in connection with the offences. The image was captured on Wednesday, 26 June.

“While the person’s face is covered, we hope that someone who lives or works in the area may recognise the individual from their distinctive clothing. If you think you may recognise the person shown in the image – maybe they are a customer at your shop, or live nearby – I would urge you to contact my team.

“I understand providing information to police can be intimidating, but I can reassure the public that any information provided will be handled sensitively. If you would rather provide information anonymously, please contact Crimestoppers.”

No arrests have been made and enquiries continue.

Anyone with information can contact police by calling 101 or visiting www.met.police.uk, quoting reference 2433/23Jun.

Alternatively, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.