Met says everyone has a role in tackling VAWG after security team stops rape

The Met has praised security staff at Canary Wharf and called for more joint action to help tackle violence against women and girls after security helped stop a rape and bring a violent offender to justice.

Syed Imam, aged 30, (07.08.95) from Croydon Road, Beddington, was found guilty of attempted rape on Thursday, July 2, 2026, following a four-day trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court. Imam was sentenced to 6 years on Thursday, 3 September.

Imam was arrested in the early morning of Friday 14 March, following a report from the security team at Canary Wharf who witnessed Imam attempting to rape a woman in the underpass near the train station.

The security team had observed Imam acting suspiciously while on patrol and swiftly intervened when they saw him forcibly assaulting a vulnerable woman. The security team detained the man to prevent him from fleeing.

They alerted officers who made an arrest, secured vital evidence and progressed the investigation at pace – securing a charge within 24 hours.

The security team’s actions meant officers were able to arrest this dangerous offender within half an hour of the assault.

Detective Constable Madeleine Powell, who worked on this case stated:

“This case shows the important role everyone has to play in tackling violence against women and girls. If security staff at Canary Wharf had not bravely intervened, this violent offender could still be walking our streets, and the victim may have suffered even more harm than she already has.

“Everyone has a part to play in the joint action needed to protect women and girls and report concerning behaviour when they see it – you will be listened to and we will take action.

“I am proud of our officers who worked at an incredible pace to arrest Imam and present a compelling case, helping us to get justice for the victim and protect the public”

The investigation highlights the value of strong partnership working, with Canary Wharf Security playing a crucial role in identifying the offence, safeguarding the victim, detaining the suspect and carrying out extensive CCTV enquiries that enabled officers to quickly establish the suspect's movements.

Despite the victim having no recollection of what had occurred, the evidence secured through CCTV and fast-paced investigative work allowed the suspect to be interviewed, charged and remanded within 24 hours. The case was further strengthened through close collaboration between the officers, CPS and prosecution teams, ensuring the investigation progressed efficiently and without unnecessary delays.

Throughout the process, dedicated support from specialist officers helped the victim understand the proceedings, remain engaged with the investigation and navigate the significant trauma she had experienced. The case demonstrates how effective partnership working, victim-focused policing and swift evidence-led investigations can combine to secure justice in the most challenging circumstances.

Keeping women and girls safe is one of the Met’s top priorities and in the last year, the Met has more than doubled its positive outcomes, including arrests and charges for rape. The increases in positive outcomes are echoed across the board, with arrests and charges for general violence against women and girls (VAWG) offences up 71%. These statistics reflect the determination of officers and partners to pursue offenders and bring them to justice, whilst also suggesting that more victims feel able to come forward and report offences.