Police issue warning after a series of reported sexual assaults in London from fake minicab driver

Police in west London are urging women to only use mini-cabs that they have specifically booked when travelling home alone, following three incidents in Merton and Wandsworth. Detectives are investigating three reported incidents involving a possible mini cab driver in the areas of Clapham and Putney who approaches lone females late at night. When the victim is in the vehicle, the driver stops the car and assaults her.

The incidents, which may be linked, took place in Battersea Rise on Saturday 3 August at 0:155hrs; and in Putney High Street on Sunday 11 August at 00:10hrs and Sunday 18 August at 02:47hrs. Police are keen to hear from anyone who thinks they may have encountered the suspect. Detective Inspector Joanne Flynn, of the South West Command Unit’s CID, said: “We are following a number of lines of enquiry, however, it is important that we make women aware that this predatory man is out there. “Although none of the victims sustained serious injuries, they were, understandably, traumatised by the incidents. “The vehicle may or may not be a genuine minicab. Please ensure that you only get into cabs that you have personally booked and if possible, don’t travel home alone.” Anyone who has information is asked to call police on 101 quoting 0318262/19, Tweet @MetCC or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. 

Image: Source; Metropolitan Police - Remixed