Police release more CCTV and appeal for witnesses following Covent Garden rape

The Met Police have released more CCTV footage as part of their investigation into the rape of a woman in Covent Garden.

The attack occurred in the early hours of the morning on Saturday August 22, when a woman in her 20s was approached by an unknown man as she walked along Shaftesbury Avenue, Cambridge Circus and Drury Lane.

At around 5.20am, the man dragged her into a doorway in Macklin Street where he raped her.

The woman managed to flee, and submitted a report to the police shortly after. She is receiving support from specialist officers.

Detectives have conducted urgent enquiries, and have now obtained further CCTV from the area.

They have appealed for the public’s help in identifying the man, who is described as white, 5ft 8ins tall with short brown hair.

Police have appealed to the public in an attempt to identify this man

Met Police

Police have appealed to the public in an attempt to identify this man

Met Police

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 has been urged to contact police through 101, quoting CAD reference 5512/22AUG26, or anonymously to Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111.