At least 22 lone women have been sexually assaulted in Hackney Marshes
(Picture: Met Police)Police have launched a manhunt for a teenager believed to have sexually assaulted at least 22 women walking or jogging through Hackney Marshes in east London.
Detectives on Thursday released an e-fit image of a suspect who has been described by victims, and say they believe the attacks to be linked.
The suspect approached lone women walking or jogging through the beauty spot on a bicycle, police said.
He then grabbed their buttocks from behind, or touched their genitals, before making “inappropriate comments” and fleeing on the bike.
Detectives revealed they have so far received 22 reports from February to June but suspect there could be more incidents and are urging any women who may not yet have spoken to police to make contact.
The suspect is described by police as a light-skinned male, possibly mixed race, aged 16 or17, who is usually wearing a grey tracksuit.
DC Hannah Rodericks, of the Met’s Central East Command Unit, said: “I understand this news may cause considerable concern among the community.
“We in the Central East Command Unit share that concern and are doing everything we can to identify and bring to justice the person responsible.
“It is imperative that he is identified but we need the public’s help. Anyone who has information that they think can help us is urged to make contact immediately.”
Anyone who has information that could help police should call 101 ref 4216097/22.
