Fresh appeal for information made on alleged rape against 13-year-old girl in east London
Detectives have released CCTV images of two men they want to speak to
The family of a 13-year-old girl who reported being raped in an east London park have spoken of the devastation the alleged incident has had on them, as police released CCTV images of two men they want to speak to.
A £10,000 reward is also being offered by Crimestoppers for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the attack, which police said took place more than two years ago in the Bethnal Green area of east London.
Scotland Yard said an investigation was launched at around 11.30pm on Thursday August 1 2024 after it was reported that a 13-year-old girl had been raped.
The Metropolitan Police said the victim reported seeing two men on Whitechapel Road, and it is alleged that the girl was taken from a point on that road into Weavers Fields, approximately a 15-minute walk away, where she was raped.
The young girl was later found by a member of the public who helped her.
The Met said detectives have carried out extensive inquiries since 2024 including reviewing CCTV footage, conducting forensic examinations and speaking with potential witnesses.
Officers are now in a position to release CCTV images of two men they want to trace.
The victim’s family said: “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.
“While we have done everything we can to support her and stay strong as a family, the impact has been devastating.
“This has affected all of us in ways that are difficult to put into words.
“We are asking anyone who knows anything about what happened that night to come forward.
“Even the smallest piece of information could help provide answers and bring us a step closer to justice.”
Detective Chief Inspector Anna Deighton, who is 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 inquiries 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.
“If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, it is vital you get in touch.”
Alexa Loukas, regional manager for London at Crimestoppers, said: “The impact of this horrific crime continues to be felt by the victim and her family two years on.
“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, or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 55 111 or via the charity's website.