Police investigating two serious sexual assaults in south-east London have intensified their search for a suspect by using advanced DNA analysis to identify potential relatives who may help lead detectives to the man they believe is responsible.
The renewed appeal comes as investigators continue to pursue every available lead in cases that occurred four years apart.
Authorities have also reissued CCTV footage of a man they want to identify and are urging members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist the investigation.
Advanced DNA Technology Plays Key Role
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that investigators are employing familial DNA techniques, an investigative method that compares crime scene DNA with profiles that may belong to biological relatives of an unknown suspect.
The National Crime Agency has helped compile a list of individuals whose genetic links could assist detectives in narrowing down the search.
Police stressed that the specialist forensic work is being carried out alongside traditional investigative methods as officers continue examining evidence gathered from both crime scenes.
Two Attacks Investigated as Potentially Linked
The investigation focuses on two alleged stranger rapes that occurred in residential parts of south-east London.
The first incident was reported near the Thames Path in Thamesmead in May 2020.
Four years later, on June 19, 2024, a second woman was allegedly attacked in a derelict area along Sewell Road in Abbey Wood.
Detectives believe the similarities between the two cases warrant a coordinated investigation and continue to examine whether both assaults were committed by the same individual.
Investigation Leader Appeals for Public Assistance
Detective Chief Inspector Zoe Hendrick, who is leading the inquiry, described both victims as particularly vulnerable and said identifying the suspect remains the investigation’s highest priority.
She said investigators have worked relentlessly since the first report was made, focusing on supporting the victims while pursuing every possible avenue to locate the man responsible.
Hendrick explained that detectives are once again circulating CCTV images of a man they wish to speak with, hoping that renewed publicity will prompt someone to recognize him or provide information that had not previously been shared.
CCTV Images Reissued After Earlier Appeal
The Metropolitan Police have released surveillance footage showing a man walking along a pavement while wearing a white sleeveless vest, blue jeans and white trainers.
According to investigators, previous appeals generated several pieces of information that officers thoroughly examined.
Despite those efforts, the suspect has not yet been identified.
Police believe that circumstances may have changed since the earlier appeal and are encouraging anyone who was previously reluctant to come forward—or who is only now seeing the footage—to contact investigators.
Crimestoppers Offers £10,000 Reward
Independent charity Crimestoppers has announced a reward of £10,000 for information submitted anonymously that directly leads to the conviction of the person responsible for the attacks.
Regional manager Alexa Loukas said someone may possess a seemingly minor detail that could prove decisive in solving the case.
She emphasized that anyone contacting Crimestoppers remains completely anonymous and will not be required to provide personal details, make a formal witness statement or appear in court.
Loukas urged anyone who recognizes the man shown in the CCTV footage or has information about either incident to share what they know, saying it could help secure justice for the victims and reduce the risk of further attacks on women and girls.
Police Continue Appeal for Information
Investigators are asking anyone with information relating to the suspect or the two incidents to contact the Metropolitan Police by calling 101 or by messaging @MetCC on X, quoting reference CAD 3842/30JUN2026.
Those wishing to remain anonymous can instead contact Crimestoppers by telephone or through its secure online reporting service.
Police say even seemingly insignificant information could provide the breakthrough needed to identify the suspect and advance the investigation.
