Police hunt man suspected of grabbing 11-year-old girl

Anyone with information is being asked to contact Hackney CID on 101. Image: Met Police

A man suspected of grabbing an 11-year-old schoolgirl from behind is being hunted by police.

Detectives said that on Tuesday 27 September at around 8.30am the girl, who was wearing her school uniform, was walking through the Bannister House Estate when she became aware of a man walking behind her.

He grabbed her and she was only able to break free from him and raise the alarm after biting his hand.

The suspect is described as a dark skinned black male, aged around 40 and approximately 6ft in height, with a stocky build.

He has a spiky beard which is greying and is believed to have a scratch on his left cheek.

At the time of the attack he was wearing a navy blue beanie hat, a zipped up hooded top, black trousers and a long jacket to his knees.

He had three sovereign style rings on his right hand, a sovereign on the little finger of his left hand and a normal ring on another finger.

Detective Inspector Paul Ridley said: “A random and unprovoked attack against a young female in this manner is fortunately rare but has left the victim clearly distressed.

“Thankfully, and despite her ordeal, the victim in this case has been able to provide a detailed description and compile an e-fit of her attacker.

“I would appeal to anyone who knows who this image may be of to get in contact with us and tell us who he is and where to find him.

“You may have noticed an individual with a recent fresh scratch to his face or a possible bite mark on his hand. If you have, please contact us.

“Due to the time of the day, and the manner of this incident, there may be witnesses who we have not yet spoken to, and who may have seen the attack or the suspect getting away. Please get in touch as your information may well help.

“As a result of this incident there have been increased high visibility patrols in the area.”

Anyone who recognises the e-fit, any witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to contact the investigation team at Hackney CID via 101.

To give information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.