Police are appealing to the public after a woman reported being raped in broad daylight by a man in Burgess Park, on Friday, May 26.
The woman, in her twenties, told police she was assaulted in the Cobourg Nature Reserve – a small patch of woodland just east of the lake – between 9.30 and 10.15am.
Police have released a detailed description of the suspect, described as black, in his late twenties or early 30s, with a scar under his eye on the left side of his face.
Police scramble to identify the victim of a violent assault in Burgess Park this morning
Detective Constable Timea Fazekas, leading the investigation, said: “This was a truly horrific incident for the victim and she is being fully supported by officers specially trained to investigate sexual offences.
“Despite this undoubtedly terrifying ordeal the victim is able to recall significant details about the attacker. I ask members of the public to consider this description and speak to us if you think you know who the man could be.
“Similarly, if you were in the park at the time and perhaps remember seeing a man matching this description, or anything out of the ordinary, please get in touch with us without delay.”
That morning, the victim said she was approached by a man as she sat on a bench in the park.
The man is said to have asked personal questions before making sexual comments towards her.
When she walked away, she said the man followed her and she ran into the nature reserve to hide from him.
But the woman said he followed her into the nature reserve and assaulted her while threatening her with a knife.
The man is also described as having a deep voice with a London accent, a close-cut beard and having worn a black durag-type cap or hat.
He is said to have had black jogging bottoms with zip pockets and no visible logo.
Anyone who has information that could help the investigation is asked to call police on 101 or via Twitter @MetCC. And give reference CAD 2579/26MAY.
To give information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
