'Never take your safety for granted': Police issue chilling warning after terrifying attacks on lone women

Appeal: CCTV footage shows a suspect walking along Streatham Common South between the two attacks
Metropolitan Police
Sebastian Mann16 March 2016
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Police today issued a chilling warning after two lone women were targeted in terrifying attacks within the space of just a few hours.

Scotland Yard told people “never take your safety for granted” as detectives offered a £10,000 reward for information leading to the prosecution of a man believed to be behind the assaults in south London.

In the first, a 29-year-old woman was set upon from behind by a man who punched her to the floor before continuing the assault until he was disturbed by a member of the public.

The incident happened at about 10pm on December 20 in Challice Way, Streatham, police said. The suspect ran off in the direction of Hartwell Close.

Three hours later he is said to have struck again, this time targeting a 20-year-old woman walking along Streatham Common South.

Police issue warning after Streatham sex attacks

She noticed him pursuing her but before she could get away he attacked her in an alleyway between Convington Way and a recreation ground.

The attacker forced the victim to the ground and then sexually assaulted her before fleeing the scene, police said.

Scotland Yard’s Detective Constable Gemma Robb said: "This man has committed two violent offences against women and must be apprehended.

“Both attacks have involved a significant level of violence and have been terrifying for the victims. I would urge anyone who has information that could assist this investigation, or anyone who knows who is responsible, to contact police."

The suspect is described as a male, aged in his mid to late 20s, of medium build and approximately 5ft 7inches tall. He also has a dark beard.

CCTV footage of him walking along Streatham Common South between the two attacks has been released by police as part of the effort to find him.

It came as detectives issued “personal safety advice” for Londoners, telling them to prepare travel arrangements before leaving the house and to ensure they look as “assertive” as possible when out alone.

One piece of advice reads: “Never take your safety for granted and look after your friends so that they don't become vulnerable. Remember your personal safety is more important than your phone or other valuables.”

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