Women Urged to Be Vigilant After Late Night Attacks

Image of man issued in connection with attacks in the borough

Extra police officers are on patrol in the Hounslow area following two serious attacks on women in the last two weeks.

Police have issued an image of a man they wish to speak to in connection the incidents which they believed are linked.

(CCTV image removed for legal reasons)

The first incident occurred on 7 August, shortly before midnight, in Hanworth Road, near the junction with St Stephens Road. A 19-year-old woman was approached from behind, grabbed by the attacker and cut with a bladed item across her neck.

The second incident occurred on 17 August, at approximately 1.30am, in Whitton Road, near the junction with Murray Avenue, and involved a 26-year-old who was again approached from behind and cut across her face with a bladed item.

Both women suffered cuts which required hospital treatment.

The suspect is described as a black man, or a light skinned black man, aged between 18 and 25 years, and between 5ft 6 to 5ft 11ins.

Borough Commander for Hounslow Carl Bussey said: "I would ask people to be extra vigilant and aware of their environment, particularly when walking late at night.

"These sorts of crimes are thankfully rare in Hounslow, but I would like to reassure people that my officers are working tirelessly to catch whoever is responsible.

"Extra officers will be on patrol in the area while this investigation continues."Officers would urge a male cyclist who came to the aid of the victim in the Hanworth Road incident to call us immediately. He may have information that could help the investigation.

Detectives would also like to speak to anyone in the area that has been followed in the last few weeks, or who has noticed a man fitting the description acting suspiciously.

Local MP Mary Macleod commented: “I would like to ask everyone to be particularly vigilant, especially when walking home late at night in Hounslow, until this perpetrator is caught. I know that Hounslow Police are making every effort to catch this individual, and are calling in extra officers to patrol the area, whilst the investigation continues. Anyone who believes that they have been followed in the last couple of weeks, or who recognises the description of the suspect should contact Hounslow Police immediately."

Anyone with information is asked to contact them on 0208 721 4155 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

August 22, 2012