The Metropolitan Police has launched a new appeal for information following the rape of a 13-year-old girl in east London.
The force has released images of two men they want to speak to in connection with their investigation, while independent charity Crimestoppers have offered a £10,000 reward for information that leads to a conviction.
The attack occurred at around 11.30pm on Thursday, August 1, 2024, with the victim found by a member of the public, who helped her.
The teenage girl reported seeing two men on Whitechapel Road who led her into Weavers Fields, where she was raped.
The Met have carried out extensive enquiries, including reviewing CCTV footage, conducting forensic examinations and speaking with potential witnesses, and have now released CCTV images of two men they are keen to trace.
The victim and her family have been in regular contact with the force throughout the investigation, giving them access to specialist support services and safeguarding measures.
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, 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.“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 has been urged to call police on 101 quoting 01/668295/24, or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111 or on their website, www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
