Detectives from the Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command, are appealing for witnesses following an assault on a schoolgirl in Islington this morning.
At about 08:20hrs yesterday, Wednesday 8 June a 13-year old girl was approached by a man who placed his hand over her mouth and forced her into Coach House Lane, N5.
A member of the public who witnessed the assault confronted the suspect, and the girl left the scene.
The suspect approached a teenage boy who was riding a bike and took the bike from him, riding it a short distance along Highbury Hill before leaving the bike and making off on foot.
Police attended the scene and conducted a search, however the suspect could not be located and nor could the teenage boy.
A short time later police were called and the incident reported on behalf of the victim. At this stage detectives are investigating the incident as an attempted rape.
Detective Constable Ben Lucas, Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command, said:
“Enquiries are underway to identify and arrest the suspect, who was bravely confronted by a member of the public, who no doubt prevented further serious offences from taking place.
“The victim is being supported by specially trained officers and is providing information to assist the investigation.
“We are very keen to hear from any witnesses to the incident itself and also anyone who saw the suspect making off along Highbury Hill. We would particularly like to speak to the boy whose bike was stolen by the suspect as he may have vital information that could help us to identify the suspect.
“I would like to reassure anyone who may be concerned about contacting the police that they will be treated with the utmost sensitivity.”
The suspect is described as a white male, about 6ft tall and of muscular build. He had black and grey hair.
Police are asking anyone with information to call 101 or to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111