THE MET INCREASE PRESENCE IN ICKENHAM AFTER SEX ATTACK INVOLVING A CHILD

Detectives are appealing for information and help to identify a man after a child reported that he was sexually assaulted.

Police were called at approximately 00:20 on Saturday, 23 November 2019 to a residential address on The Greenway, Ickenham, following a report that a man had gained entry before sexually assaulting a young boy in his bedroom.

There was no evidence of forced entry.

The man fled the scene after the child told him that he would phone the police.

The child is being supported by specially trained officers who are not confirming his age in order to protect the boy's identity.

Detective Constable Claire Field, from the West Area Command Unit’s Safeguarding team, said:

“This matter has clearly caused a great deal of anguish to the boy’s family.  Police are very concerned and we are carrying out an extensive and well-resourced investigation."

DC Field, added:

"We are appealing for the public’s help to identify a man who was seen running from the area shortly after the assault. It is vital that we speak to him to establish why he was in the vicinity.  Whilst incidents such as this are thankfully very rare, I would encourage people to ensure that their homes are kept secure at all times and to report anyone acting suspiciously.”

The suspect is described as white, of slim build with short hair and a beard.

​He was wearing blue jeans and a T-shirt.

There have been no arrests and enquiries continue.

Anyone who recognises the man in the CCTV image, or who was in the area at the time, is asked to call police on 101 or contact via Twitter @MetCC.

Please quote CAD 145/23NOV.

To give information anonymously contact CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

Detective Chief Inspector Natalie Norris from the West Area Command Unit, said:

“We fully recognise how concerned our community will be after an incident like this.  For this reason we have patrols in the area and we are working with partners and keeping them informed.  Together we are doing all we can to support the family and all those affected.  This is a horrible incident and thankfully rare, but my officers are working incredibly hard to find the person responsible.”