Witness appeal after man assaulted on train near Crystal Palace (From News Shopper)

Witness appeal after man assaulted on train near Crystal Palace

11:27am Wednesday 2nd May 2012 in Crime By Robert Fisk

OFFICERS are appealing for information after a man was assaulted on a train between Balham and Crystal Palace.

The 26-year-old was walking up the stairs at Balham station when he was approached by a man who began to verbally abuse him.

The victim ignored the man and boarded the train, but noticed the man follow him into the carriage, where he launched an unprovoked attack.

Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Jane Hill, from the British Transport Police (BTP), said: “This was a very busy service, and I am sure that someone would have seen this violent attack.

“It must have been a frightening experience for many of the passengers onboard and I’d like to assure them that we’ll do all we can to catch whoever is responsible.

“Incidents like this are extremely rare on the rail network and we are taking this investigation very seriously.

“As part of our enquiries, we’re reviewing CCTV and speaking with witnesses and we also want to identify the man pictured in the CCTV images."

The suspect was accompanied by two other people who were not involved in the attack.

Investigators believe he may also have connections to the Brentford area.

British Transport Police want to hear from anyone who saw the incident which happened at around 9.20pm on April 20.

Anyone with information should call 0800 405040 quoting reference B4/LSA of April 26 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.