£20,000 reward offered to find attacker targeting lone women in the Southwark area.

Borough Market, Southwark

Police have offered a £20,000 reward after a number of lone women were attacked in Southwark. In a series of linked attacks in Peckham in December, two women were assaulted and both sustained considerable injuries. In the first attack, between 1.15am and 2.15am on Commercial Way, a 31-year-old woman sustained head injuries.

The second took place in Hanover Park between 6.15am and 6.45am on December 13, where a 30-year-old woman was attacked until the point of unconsciousness. The victim was then found by a passer-by lying in the street. In both instances, the perpetrator ripped the victims’ clothing and appear to be increasing in violence.

Another attack took place in Deptford on New Year’s Day in what is also thought to be a linked event. An 18-year old woman was assaulted and left with serious head injuries at approximately 5am in Creekside/Deptford Church street.

Jessica, a truffle stall owner in Borough Market, expressed concern about her journeys home in light of the attacks. She said, “I often have to pack up shop on my own, and travel home on the tube by myself too – I don’t think I’ll be doing that for a while until they catch the attacker.”

CCTV images showing the Hanover Park attack were shown on BBC’s Crimewatch last night, which is available on iPlayer. Police are urging anyone with information relating to any of the incidents to come forward.

Police also stress that the attacks are increasing rapidly in violence, and are to provide safety advice for local women in Southwark.

Witnesses can call the investigation team on 020 8217 6541 or via 101, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.