A 13-year-old girl was raped in an east London park and has since been left “living in fear”, her family said. The incident happened in Bethnal Green at around 11.30pm on August 1, 2024, with police now releasing CCTV images of two men they want to speak to.
A £10,000 reward is also on offer from the independent charity Crimestoppers for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible, the Metropolitan Police said.
The victim reported seeing two men on Whitechapel Road who led her into Weavers Fields, where she was raped. The victim was later found by a member of the public, who helped her, the force also added.
Detectives have carried out extensive enquiries since 2024, including reviewing CCTV footage, conducting forensic examinations and speaking with potential witnesses.
The victim’s family said “this has affected all of us in ways that are difficult to put into words”. They added: “Our daughter continues to live in fear for her safety and no longer feels comfortable being on her own. Wherever possible, we accompany her because she simply doesn’t feel safe without us.
“She should be enjoying her teenage years, spending time with friends, growing in confidence and looking forward to the future. Instead, so much of that has been taken away from her as a result of this incident.”
Detective Chief Inspector Anna Deighton, leading the investigation, said: “This was an awful attack on a teenage girl who was targeted and subjected to sexual violence.
“Two years on, our enquiries into this investigation are continuing. If you recognise the men in the CCTV we have released with this appeal, please come forward and speak to us.
Alexa Loukas, Regional Manager for London at Crimestoppers, said: “No young person should have to live in fear or have their sense of safety and freedom taken away from them as a result of such a devastating attack.
“We know that someone may hold information that could help identify those responsible. No matter how insignificant it may seem, that piece of information could be crucial in helping secure justice for the victim and her family.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting 01/668295/24. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111 or on their website, www.crimestoppers-uk.org.