**Police Launch Manhunt After Attempted Rape in Busy North London Cinema**
Metropolitan Police are appealing for the public’s assistance after a woman was reportedly the target of a serious sexual assault at a bustling cinema on Finchley Road, north-west London. The alleged incident took place in the middle of the afternoon on Wednesday, 11 June, and detectives have released CCTV images of a man they wish to identify in connection with the attack.
The woman, who is in her 30s, told police that she was assaulted around 3.45pm in the popular venue. At that time of day, such cinemas are typically frequented by a mix of local residents, families, and movie enthusiasts, prompting concerns about safety in public spaces during daylight hours. According to authorities, the suspect acted with “brazen and opportunistic” intent, with his actions described as both disturbing and audacious.
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Ridley, the lead investigator for the case, underscored the gravity of the situation. “This horrific attack happened in the middle of the day in a busy establishment – highlighting the brazen and opportunistic nature of the offender. It is really important we find this man as soon as possible,” DCI Ridley remarked. He emphasised that investigators are working relentlessly to track down the individual involved.
The CCTV footage, now released by police, shows the suspect leaving the scene shortly after the alleged attack. The man is then seen walking southbound on Finchley Road, heading towards Swiss Cottage. The images reveal a man thought to be in his 50s, around 5ft 6in in height, with a slim build and dark hair on the sides of his head. He is captured wearing a black North Face coat and glasses.
“Protecting women and girls in our city, ensuring they feel safe at all times, remains one of our key priorities,” DCI Ridley stated. He reassured the public of the police’s commitment to apprehending those who pose a danger in the community, and appealed directly to anyone with knowledge about the suspect.
The case has sparked renewed debate over safety in public spaces, particularly those that are considered family-friendly and well-frequented during daily hours. Advocacy groups once more highlighted the persistent issue of gender-based violence, calling for ongoing measures to protect vulnerable individuals and provide them with immediate support.
Police are urging anyone who was in the vicinity of Finchley Road on Wednesday afternoon, especially those who may have witnessed suspicious activity or remember seeing an individual matching the suspect’s description, to come forward as soon as possible. Members of the public can contact police by calling 101 and quoting reference 5365/11JUN. All information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could prove crucial to the investigation.
In addition to police efforts, community leaders and local councillors have voiced their concern about the incident and its impact on the sense of security in the area. There have been calls for greater police presence in leisure venues and for enhanced CCTV coverage to deter would-be offenders.
While the victim is receiving support, authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any information that could assist with enquiries. The investigation continues, with officers seeking to reassure the community that every effort is being made to swiftly identify and locate the suspect.