British Transport Police (BTP) have launched a public appeal following two shocking attacks carried out by a group of teenage girls against elderly passengers on London’s railway network. Occurring on the evening of March 18, the incidents—just hours apart—have sparked public outrage and renewed calls for enhanced safety on trains. With CCTV images now released, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to help identify the suspects.
These incidents are a stark reminder of the increasing need for vigilance and swift justice in ensuring public transport remains safe for everyone—especially the most vulnerable members of society.
Timeline of the Attacks
First Incident – Assault on Elderly Man
The first reported incident took place around 9:30 PM aboard a Southeastern train traveling from London Bridge to Woolwich Arsenal. According to BTP, three teenage girls approached an elderly male passenger and, without provocation, assaulted him. The attack involved verbal abuse escalating into physical violence. The man, though shaken, did not suffer life-threatening injuries but was left visibly distressed by the incident.
This initial assault is believed to have been the group’s first act of violence that evening, setting a disturbing precedent for what would follow.
Second Incident – Elderly Woman Targeted
Approximately 90 minutes later, a second assault occurred—this time targeting an elderly woman on a different Southeastern train heading from London Bridge to Erith. The same group of girls, believed to be involved in the earlier incident, approached the woman, assaulted her, and then attempted to attack another female passenger who tried to intervene.
The second victim suffered bruising and emotional trauma. The intervention of bystanders may have prevented the attack from escalating further. Still, the randomness and aggression of these acts have deeply unsettled regular train commuters.
Police Investigation and Appeal for Information
CCTV Footage and Suspect Descriptions
British Transport Police have released CCTV footage and images of the suspects. The three teenage girls appear to be aged between 13 and 16 and are seen interacting with one another before the incidents took place. Police believe the girls are linked to both attacks and are now intensifying efforts to locate them.
Detectives are currently reviewing station surveillance and train carriage footage in coordination with Southeastern staff to build a timeline and identify further witnesses.
How the Public Can Help
Police are urging anyone who recognizes the individuals in the images or who may have witnessed the assaults to come forward. The public is encouraged to:
- Text BTP at 61016
- Call 0800 40 50 40
- Quote reference number 770 of March 18
- Alternatively, submit information anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111
Even seemingly minor tips could prove vital in tracking down the suspects and securing justice for the victims.
Community and Public Transport Reactions
Widespread Concern Over Train Safety
The incidents have reignited concerns over the safety of vulnerable passengers on public transport, especially during off-peak hours. Many commuters have taken to social media to express their alarm, with some calling for designated security patrols and real-time police presence aboard trains during late hours.
Community leaders have also weighed in, stating that public transport should be a safe space for all, and that aggressive behavior—regardless of the perpetrator’s age—must be met with serious consequences.
Response From Transport Authorities
In response, Southeastern and Transport for London (TfL) have reiterated their commitment to passenger safety. Measures under consideration include:
- Increasing the visibility of transport police
- Adding additional CCTV coverage in carriages
- Launching community outreach programs to raise awareness
BTP is working closely with rail operators to monitor and respond more effectively to incidents involving antisocial behavior and criminal conduct.
