Hunt for serial London rapist as cops release CCTV of man they want to trace

Police are hunting a serial rapist responsible for two attacks on vulnerable women in southeast London, with detectives using cutting-edge DNA techniques to trace possible relatives of the suspect.

The first alleged rape took place near the Thames Path in Thamesmead in May 2020, while a second woman was attacked on June 19, 2024, in a derelict area on Sewell Road in Abbey Wood. In the more recent attack, the suspect was captured on CCTV leading the victim to the derelict area before she contacted police to report the rape.

Detective Chief Inspector Zoe Hendrick, who is leading the investigation, said: "This man has targeted two very vulnerable women raping them in daylight hours in residential areas. Investigations of this nature are extremely rare and our priority since the launch of the first investigation has been to support the victims and identify the man responsible."

Detectives have carried out extensive enquiries using DNA matched from the scenes of both investigations. They have travelled across the country to obtain voluntary DNA samples from members of the public who could potentially be biologically related to the suspect. The National Crime Agency has been supporting the investigation by compiling a familial DNA list of men to rule out or highlight as potential suspects.

CCTV footage has been released showing a man police wish to speak to. Ms Hendrick said: "In addition to the DNA enquiries we previously issued an image of a man who we would like to speak with in connection with these investigations. We are recirculating these images in the hope that someone may recognise him and assist with our enquiries."

Crimestoppers has offered a reward of up to £10,000 for information passed to the charity anonymously that leads to the man's conviction. Alexa Loukas, Regional Manager for Greater London at Crimestoppers, said: "This is a deeply concerning case and someone may hold information that could make a vital difference. Contacting Crimestoppers is completely anonymous no names no statement and no court appearance."

Anyone with information can call police on 101, tweet MetCC with reference CAD 3842 30JUN2026, or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.