The alleged attack in Streatham, South London, was not reported at the time but was later seen on CCTV footage, and police were alerted the next day
07:54, 17 May 2026Updated 07:56, 17 May 2026
Police are searching for a man described as black, of medium build and in his early 30s(Image: Met Police)
Police are urging a woman they believe to have been raped near a busy high street in south London to come forward.
The Metropolitan Police said the attack happened outside Gaumont Place in Streatham at 5:30am on Tuesday.
It was not reported at the time but was later seen on CCTV footage, and cops were alerted the following day, the force says.
Detectives have launched an investigation and are searching for a man described as black, of medium build and in his early 30s.
Detective Constable Charlie Codrington, who is leading the investigation, said: “We know the woman in this footage will be scared, but we urge her to contact the police. We are concerned for her wellbeing and officers are here to provide her with welfare, medical and trained support.”
He described it as a “horrifying incident which took place in broad daylight, close to a busy high street”.
The Met Police have released CCTV images of a man they want to speak to(Image: Met Police)
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Officers have released images of a man they want to trace and are asking anyone who recognises him to come forward.
Anyone with information that could help police should call 101 quoting 01/7556597/26, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.