Met Police releases more CCTV as part of continued investigation into Covent Garden rape

Detectives appealing for the public’s help have released more CCTV footage as part of their ongoing investigation into the rape of a woman in Covent Garden.

Two weeks ago tomorrow, in the early hours of Saturday, 22 August, a woman in her 20s was approached by an unknown man as she walked through the crowded streets of Shaftesbury Avenue, Cambridge Circus and Drury Lane.

Around 05:20hrs, the man dragged her into a doorway in Macklin Street before raping her.

The victim managed to flee and submitted a report to the police shortly after. She continues to receive support from specialist officers and dedicated services.

Detectives immediately conducted urgent enquiries and gathered CCTV, which shows a man in the vicinity of Lisle Street and Drury Lane who officers are working to trace.

The man is described as white, 5ft 8ins tall with short brown hair. Through ongoing enquiries, officers have now obtained further CCTV from the area.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Ridley, who is leading the investigation, said: “Since this offence occurred, my team has diligently pursued every available line of enquiry and identifying this man remains a priority for us, as does supporting the victim.

“Through extensive CCTV enquiries, we have established that the man we are working to trace spent a considerable amount of time moving alone throughout the West End and through some of London's busiest streets during at least a two-hour time period.

“I believe there is a strong likelihood that someone will recognise him from his appearance, clothing, movements or his presence within the area during the early hours of that Saturday morning.

“While there is no evidence at this stage that links this offence to any others, it is vital that we speak to this man as soon as possible.

“If you know who this man is, now is the time to come forward. Please do not assume someone else has already contacted us. The piece of information you hold, however small or seemingly insignificant, could be key.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact police through 101, quoting CAD reference 5512/22AUG26, or you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111.