Detectives have launched an urgent investigation after a woman in her twenties was allegedly raped in Canary Wharf in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Emergency services were called to Hertsmere Road in east London at 4.25am on August 23 following reports of a sexual assault. The victim was taken to hospital by the London Ambulance Service where she is now being supported by specialist officers.
No arrests have been made as Metropolitan Police detectives make urgent enquiries to identify the attacker. The force has issued an appeal for anyone who was in the area at the time to come forward with information.
Victim Receiving Specialist Support
A Met Police spokesman confirmed the investigation, stating: “We are investigating an alleged rape which took place on Hertsmere Road, Canary Wharf.
“Officers were called at 04:25hrs on Saturday, 23 August and attended alongside the London Ambulance Service. A woman in her 20s was taken to hospital and is being supported by specially trained officers.”
The spokesman added: “At this time no arrests have been made, but officers continue to make urgent enquiries.”
Appeal for Witnesses
Police are particularly keen to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of Hertsmere Road during the early hours of Saturday morning. The area, which forms part of the Canary Wharf financial district in Tower Hamlets, would typically be quieter during weekend early morning hours.
Officers have asked anyone with information to contact them by calling 101 or submitting information online, quoting reference CAD1371/23AUG.
For those who wish to remain anonymous, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Crime in the Area
The incident has occurred in what is generally considered one of London’s safer areas. Tower Hamlets ranks among the top 20 safest boroughs in London, with a crime rate of 99 crimes per 1,000 people in 2023 – approximately 6 per cent lower than the overall London crime rate.
Canary Wharf specifically benefits from significant investment in urban development, increased police presence, and better infrastructure, which has historically led to lower crime rates compared to other parts of east London.
According to recent crime statistics, 391 crimes were reported within half a mile of the Hertsmere Road area in May 2025, with violence and sexual offences being the most common crime type in the borough.
Support for Victims
The Metropolitan Police works with specialist support services for victims of sexual assault. Victims can access support through various organisations including:
- The Havens, which provides specialist support following rape and sexual assault
- Victim Support, offering free and confidential support
- Rape Crisis England & Wales, providing specialist support services
Detective teams trained in investigating sexual offences are handling the case, with the victim receiving ongoing support from officers specially trained to work with survivors of sexual assault.
As the investigation continues, police have emphasised the urgency of their enquiries and the importance of anyone with information coming forward to assist in identifying the perpetrator.
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