Have you seen this man? Police release new footage after woman in her 20s was raped in London’s Covent Garden

Police have released CCTV footage of a man they would like to trace after a woman was raped close to a crowded area of Central London.

A woman in her 20s was approached by a man unknown to her as she walked along the busy streets of Covent Garden.

The victim made her way through Shaftesbury Avenue, Cambridge Circus and Drury Lane, before being dragged into a doorway in Macklin Street, at around 5.20am on Saturday, August 22.

She managed to flee and submitted a report to the police shortly after. The victim continues to receive support from specialist officers and dedicated services.

Met Police detectives have found CCTV showing a man in the vicinity of Lisle Street and Drury Lane who they are keen to speak to.

The man is described as white, 5ft 8ins tall with short brown hair. 

Met Police want to trace the man, who was seen in the vicinity of Lisle Street and Drury Lane

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Ridley, who is leading the investigation, said: ‘Since this offence occurred, my team has diligently pursued every available line of enquiry and identifying this man remains a priority for us, as does supporting the victim.

‘Through extensive CCTV enquiries, we have established that the man we are working to trace spent a considerable amount of time moving alone throughout the West End and through some of London’s busiest streets during at least a two-hour time period.

‘I believe there is a strong likelihood that someone will recognise him from his appearance, clothing, movements or his presence within the area during the early hours of that Saturday morning.

‘While there is no evidence at this stage that links this offence to any others, it is vital that we speak to this man as soon as possible.

‘If you know who this man is, now is the time to come forward. Please do not assume someone else has already contacted us. 

‘The piece of information you hold, however small or seemingly insignificant, could be key.’

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting CAD reference 5512/22AUG26, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.