The Met Police has released an image of a man they are trying to trace in connection with an allegation of rape in Merton.
Police were called shortly after 07:00 hrs to the North Place area on Tuesday, 3rd November.
A spokesperson for the Met confirmed that a teenage girl is currently being supported by specialist SOIT officers.
No arrests have yet been made, and a crime scene remains in place.
A video has been shared on social media which shows the moment when the male is confronted by a member of the public who had become concerned for the welfare of the girl after she was led down an alleyway by the suspect
In the footage, the good samaritan follows the male as he disappears out of view.
After about 30 seconds, the person filming catches up with the male and shouts: “Let her go. What are you doing with her?”
The male replies by saying that the girl is his sister.
Not convinced by his response, the good samaritan shouts: “What are you doing with her?” as she continues to close in on the suspect.
The male replies by saying: “bro, this is mans family, bruv, move. Are you nuts?”
The good samaritan continues to bravely walk after the male, as he tries to lead the female away from the scene.
The male repeats: “This is mans family” to which the person filming asks: “So what are you doing in the corner with her?”
The female following the suspect then repeatedly asks the girl: “Are you ok?” but she does not get a response from either the suspect, or the victim.
The male then turns towards the female witness and shouts: “Don’t follow me, bro”.
When the witness catches up with the duo, the male suspect walks off, leaving the teenage girl behind.
The witness immediately asks the girl: “Are you ok? Do you know him?”
The young girl starts crying and confirms that she does not know the male.
Hugging the good samaritan, the girl then cries: “I’m really scared, I’m really scared”.
Detective Inspector Laura Semple, of the South West Command Unit, said:
“The victim and her family are receiving support from specially trained officers.
“We have released an image of a man we would like to speak to and urge anyone who can help us trace him to contact police immediately.”
A spokesperson for the Met Police said:
“A police investigation is underway, and people are asked to please be mindful of sharing information via social media that could identify the alleged victim, or affect any potential future proceedings”.
Any witnesses or those who have information that could assist police is asked to call 101 ref CAD V184/20.
Alternatively, tweet @MetCC, or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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