Category: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

The Metropolitan Police Service has voluntarily referred two cases to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) after receiving complaints from two women regarding prior police investigations into allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed.

These complaints, involving investigations from 2008 and 2013, address concerns about the quality of police response and, in the case of the 2013 investigation, how details came to be disclosed publicly.

Commander Stephen Clayman, from the Met’s Specialist Crime team, said:

“We are actively reviewing 21 allegations reported to the Metropolitan Police prior to Mohamed Al Fayed’s passing, as well as the related police investigations, to determine if any additional investigative steps are available or there are things we could have done better. This process remains active, and we are committed to assessing all new allegations, pursuing justice where possible and transparently addressing any failings.

“In recent weeks, two victims-survivors have come forward with concerns about how their allegations were handled when first reported, and it is only appropriate that the IOPC assess these complaints. Although we cannot change the past, we are resolute in our goal to offer every individual who contacts us the highest standard of service and support.

“I encourage anyone with relevant information, whether you were personally affected or have knowledge about others who may have facilitated Al Fayed’s actions to contact us. Our priority remains to ensure that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of justice.”

Background:

In addition to the 21 pre-existing allegations against Al Fayed, the MPS has received new reports since renewed media interest. Specialist officers are reviewing all information to determine if other individuals may be subject to investigation for related criminal offenses.

The MPS offers several ways to report information:

• Call the Complex Investigation Team directly at 020 8217 6582 or 6586.

• Call 101 anytime and quote reference CAD1920/26Sep.

• Email the Complex Investigation Team at CSCMailbox-.ComplexInvestigationTeam@met.pnn.police.uk.

• Visit our online portal to provide information anonymously.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Police are asking the public to look out for missing teenager Daniel Francis.

Daniel, 15, was reported missing at around 23:42hrs on Thursday, 7 November. He is believed to have left his address in Edmonton, Enfield, at around 22:44hrs and was last seen around half an hour prior.

It isn’t known where he might have gone.

Police conducted urgent searches of the area after Daniel was reported missing and have issued an appeal to social media.

Daniel’s hair is in cainrows and he might be wearing a black puffer jacket and grey joggers.

PC Emma Gibbs, from the Missing Persons Unit in Edmonton, said: “We are very worried for Daniel’s welfare and ask anyone who has seen him to call 999 immediately.

“Daniel, if you are reading this, please go to a police station or another place of safety and contact us to let us know that you are OK.”

Anyone who sees Daniel or has information about where he is should call 999 ref 01/1057540/24

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A man has been charged following an investigation by the Met Police into an explosion at the site of a newly installed ULEZ camera in Sidcup in December last year.

Kevin Rees, (22.08.1962) of Harcourt Avenue, Sidcup, was charged via postal charge requisition with causing an explosion likely to endanger life or cause serious injury to property, contrary to section 2 of the Explosive Substances Act 1883. He was also charged with three counts of possessing a prohibited weapon, contrary to section 5(1)(b) Firearms Act 1968. He is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ court on Monday, 11 November.

Detective Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry, who leads local policing in the Bexley area, said:

“We know that this incident caused much concern locally at the time. Local officers have continued to support the investigation team as they have diligently gone about gathering evidence in this case, working closely with the CPS, which has led to these charges being brought.

“The criminal justice process must now run its course and I would therefore ask people not to speculate further as we await the conclusion of this case at court.”

Police were called to reports of an explosion on Willersley Avenue, Sidcup, at approximately 18:45hrs on 6 December, 2023.

The investigation into the incident was carried out by officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command due to their specialism in dealing with incidents involving the use of explosives.

On 18 December, 2023, a 60-year-old man was arrested in Sidcup on suspicion of conspiracy to cause an explosion likely to endanger life or property, contrary to section two of the Explosive Substances Act 1883. He was released under investigation and subsequently charged as above.

A 61-year-old man was also arrested on 18 December, 2023, in Horsham on suspicion of conspiracy to cause an explosion likely to endanger life or property, and criminal damage, contrary to section one of the Criminal Damage Act 1971.

This man was subsequently released from investigation in relation to the explosion incident, but he was investigated in relation to a separate incident of alleged criminal damage to the ULEZ camera, which took place earlier on the same day.

The two incidents – the criminal damage to the ULEZ camera, and the explosion – are not being linked at this time.

The man, who is now 62, was charged via postal charge requisition in relation to damage caused to the camera earlier that day.

Stephen Richard Harwood-Stamper (04.08.1962) of Church Road, Broadbridge Heath, Horsham, West Sussex, is charged with criminal damage, contrary to section 1 of the Criminal Damage Act 1971, and using a false plate whilst driving, contrary to section 44 of the Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994. He is due to appear at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on 27 November.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Detectives are appealing for information after a man was threatened with a crossbow in Tower Hamlets.

Between 12:00hrs and 12:30hrs on Monday, 21 October, a man was walking down Alfred Street, E3 when he was approached by a member of the public.

He started being verbally aggressive before threatening him with a crossbow and leaving the scene.

Detective Inspector Nikki Hardy, from Central East BCU, said: “Thankfully the victim in this case suffered no injuries but was understandably shaken by what happened.

“We are now releasing an image of a man we wish to speak to in connection with this incident. We would urge everyone to look at the photo and think about whether they recognise him or know where he may be.

“Anyone with information should contact us on 101 with reference 245/31OCT number.”

Information can also be provided completely anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

As part of their investigation, detectives are looking at whether there may be any connection between this and two attacks in Shoreditch in March this year and are keeping an open mind.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Dramatic video footage released by the Met shows proactive officers foil an attempt to steal a mobile phone on one of London’s busiest streets.

In the footage a man can be seen following an unsuspecting tourist and attempting to remove a mobile phone from his pocket, before being tackled by two Met plain clothes officers, who were proactively looking for thieves.

The video was captured near Oxford Circus on Friday, 30 August after officers noticed a man acting suspiciously and paying attention to people’s pockets and belongings. He was then seen reaching towards the victim and stealing his mobile phone.

Officers arrested Sofian Hadar, 23 (25.7.91) of Cricklewood Broadway, NW2 and returned the mobile phone to its owner, a heart surgeon on holiday from Egypt.

On Wednesday, 07 November, Hadar pleaded guilty to theft and was sentenced at Isleworth Crown Court to 11 months in prison.

Detective Superintendent Saj Hussain, who leads on phone robbery and theft in the Met, said:

“Thanks to these observant and fast-acting officers another mobile phone thief has been taken off the streets of London.

“We understand the impact robbery can have on victims and we also recognise that there is still much more to do to tackle the problem as we make London safer.

“Met officers are targeting resources in hotspot areas with increased patrols and plain clothes officers – and this result makes clear this approach is having a positive impact.

“We encourage people to report as soon as they can whenever they have been the victim of a robbery or theft so officers can attend the scene and investigate swiftly.”

As part of the A New Met for London plan, the Met is improving how we police more precisely, using technology and data to build intelligence and track stolen phones. This includes using ‘Find my phone’ data to apprehend offenders and locate victims’ mobiles. This information is used to develop intelligence about common locations for where stolen phones are kept.

Between January and June 2024 officers have recovered more than 750 stolen phones.

To report a phone robbery or theft – call 999 immediately, or report on 101 or online.

For more information on how to protect your phone from theft visit: Protect your phone | Metropolitan Police.

For more information on how to protect your phone from snatchers visit: Protect your mobile phone against criminals on bikes and mopeds | Metropolitan Police.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Detectives from south London led a meticulous investigation into the sexual abuse suffered by two young girls, unknown to each other, by a Taekwondo coach who targeted the children in their own home and during group classes.

Following a trial at Inner London Crown Court, on Thursday, 7 November Diego Solarte, 44 (21.02.1980) of Studley Road, Stockwell, was sentenced to nine years imprisonment for his sexual crimes against children. The horrific nature of these crimes, which took place between 2018 and 2021, have left a profound impact on the victims, their families, and the wider community.

The court heard heart-breaking testimonies which revealed the grooming, manipulation and betrayal experienced by these young individuals, who sought sports mentorship from someone in a position of trust. Their bravery in coming forward has been crucial in ensuring justice is served.

Detective Constable Mel Jordan, from the Met’s Child Abuse Team, who led the investigation, said:

“I want to acknowledge the bravery of the victim-survivors, whose courage has been unwavering throughout this process, especially considering their young age. Coming forward is not only a tribute to their strength, but serves as a sign to any other victims, that they will be listened to and supported.

“Solarte used his position and trust of the victims’ families to take advantage of young girls in both in public classes and private settings, where they should have been at their safest.

“We understand that this case will have shaken the local and Taekwondo community. Safeguarding children is our top priority. If you or someone you know has been groomed or sexually abused, please come forward. You are not alone, and there are officers ready to support you.”

The first victim-survivor came forward while Solarte was employed by the family as a Taekwondo instructor. She reported serious sexual assaults to the police in September 2021.

Shortly after Solarte was arrested and interviewed by specialist Met detectives, he said the children did not want to do Taekwondo anymore and that they had made up the allegation so that they no longer had to do it.

A second victim-survivor bravely came forward to police while the first investigation was still active.

She reported to her school counsellor that Solarte had touched her inappropriately.

Solarte was arrested for a second time on 30 May 2022 and interviewed by police and said the victim had fabricated the sexual assault allegation against him. In interviews with specially trained Met detectives Solarte stated he had never touched the victim inappropriately and that he was not sexually interested in children.

The families of the victim-survivors made a joint statement:

“We are eternally grateful to the officers who worked tirelessly to bring justice for our children. We would encourage anyone who is in a similar situation of being a victim, supporting a victim or being a witness of abuse to come forward to the police.

“In a truly dark moment of our children’s lives, Detective Constable Jordan’s compassion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of the truth gave us a way forwards. The abuse our children have experienced has left a wound that will never fully heal, but knowing that justice has been served, and there are incredible officers protecting the safety of others, brings us comfort.

“Detective Constable Jordan did not only seek justice—but created a platform for our children to have a voice and speak out against abuse. We thank wholeheartedly each and every member of the team and the lead investigator, Detective Constable Mel Jordan, for their work and professionalism throughout this ordeal.”

Children and young people are the most vulnerable in society, and the Met is committed to keeping them safe in person and online. As part of the New Met for London plan, our officers are working closely with third sector partners, including The Children’s Society to help young people, parents and carers spot the signs of sexual abuse and predatory behaviour online and offline.

If you have been a victim of sexual assault or rape or you have information about an offender, contact police on 101 or 999 in an emergency – there are specially trained officers who will listen and investigate where needed.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Met officers are appealing to the public to help trace a man who absconded from a mental health facility in east London last week.

Kanya Ntuli, 35, was last seen at 07:19hrs on Friday, 1 November where he left Goodmayes Hospital in Ilford.

He is described as a black man, 6ft tall, medium build and last known to be wearing a grey jacket, blue/green t-shirt, black trousers and black trainers.

Kanya has links to Hackney, Walthamstow, Chingford and the River Lea areas.

While our investigation to locate Kanya continues, we are appealing to the public to help locate him.

We are concerned for his wellbeing and if seen, we are advising people to call police rather than approach him.

If seen, please call 999 immediately, quoting CAD 3125/1Nov.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Detectives investigating a fatal stabbing in Harrow have named the victim.

Corey Graham, 48, suffered knife injuries at around 16:40hrs on Wednesday, 30 October at Sussex Road, Harrow.

He was taken to hospital where, despite the efforts of medical professionals, he sadly died at 14:35hrs on Thursday, 31 October.

His family has been notified. They are being supported by specialist officers.

+

Javan Lee, 37 [19.02.87] of Sussex Road, Harrow appeared at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, 5 November charged with the murder of Corey Graham.

He was remanded in custody to appear at the same court on 21 January 2025.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Male charged after detectives investigate an allegation of rape in Harrow.

A male, believed aged 16, was arrested on Monday, 4 November on suspicion of rape, kidnap and two attempted robberies. He was charged on 5 November.

He is remanded in custody to appear at Willesden Magistrates Court today, Tuesday, 5 November.

This follows police being called at 23:45hrs on Saturday, 2 November to reports that a woman, aged in her 20s, had been raped on Church Hill, Harrow-on-the-Hill.

Detective Sergeant Phil Inman said: “We know this incident will cause much concern and anxiety in the area, especially for women and girls, and we would like to confirm that we are not seeking any other suspects in connection with this investigation.”

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A man has been charged with murder, following the death of a man in Covent Garden last month.

Police were called to Odhams Walk in Covent Garden at 11:56hrs on Sunday, 6 October following reports of an assault.

Officers attended alongside paramedics from the London Ambulance Service. A man in his 70s was found with serious injuries. The victim was taken to hospital, where he sadly died on Monday, 21 October.

We are now in the position to name him as 74-year-old James O’Neill, known to his family as Jim.

His family will continue to receive support from specialist officers.

A man was arrested on Sunday, 6 October and has since been charged in connection with this investigation.

Trevor John Gocan, 57 (07.09.1967) of Odhams Walk, Covent Garden has been charged with murder and will appear at Southwark Crown Court on Tuesday, 5 November.

Detective Inspector Rebecca Woods from Specialist Crime said “We are continuing with enquiries as part of this murder investigation following Jim’s death.

“I appreciate that this was a concerning incident, with many members of the public witnessing and providing first aid to Jim.

“If you witnessed anything but haven’t contact us, please do and help us get justice for Jim’s family.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or post @MetCC ref CAD 2858 of 6 Oct.

To remain 100% anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.