Manhunt launched for masked serial sex attacker on Lime bike targeting women in north London

12 August 2024, 09:59 | Updated: 12 August 2024, 10:13

Police have launched a manhunt for a masked serial sex attacker on a Lime bike targeting women in north west London.

Officers received four reports stating women had been sexually assaulted by a man in the Brent Cross Station area between 3 August and 6 August.

On all occasions, the women were approached by an unknown man on a bike who sexually assaulted them over their clothing.

On one occasion the suspect allegedly dragged a woman into an alleyway on Shirehall Lane before he threatened to rape her.

Officers are now treating the incidents as linked, as a result of extensive enquiries.

An image has been released of a man - wearing dark clothing, a balaclava and a black rucksack - by the Metropolitan Police.

Detective Inspector Neal Heffernan who is leading the investigation said: “No woman should ever have to experience this behaviour whilst going about their usual daily business.

"We are in contact with all four women and continue to support them through this distressing time.

“Since the incidents were reported to us, we have been working around the clock to carry out enquiries which has now resulted in the charge of a man.

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“However, we are still keen to speak with anyone who may have any information about these incidents.

"We have issued an image of a man in hope that it jogs the memory of anyone who may have been in the location at the time of the incidents.

“We are keen to speak with anyone who may have seen this cyclist during the times stated above.”

Anyone with information should contact 101 quoting Operation Maitland or CAD reference 7096/06AUG24.

Alternatively contact Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111.