Police issue new images of man wanted over suspected hate crime attacks

Detectives have issued new CCTV images of a man they want to identify over a series of assaults that took place on one day in north London.

The force has said the five unprovoked attacks in Stamford Hill on August 18 were being treated as hate crimes.

A 64-year-old man was knocked unconscious at around 8.30pm while on his way to a synagogue, a 30-year-old Jewish man was struck on the head with a bottle in Cavenove Road at around 6.41pm and a 14-year-old Jewish boy was assaulted in Holmdale Terrace at around 7.10pm.

Officers say they have been informed of fourth and fifth victims, but neither have come forward to contact the police yet.

On Tuesday detectives said that after reviewing CCTV footage they had established the man they want to locate stayed at a hostel on Seven Sisters Road in Hackney between Tuesday August 17 and Thursday August 19.

Detective Chief Inspector Yasmin Lalani, senior investigating officer, said: “We are almost two weeks on from these assaults but we remain determined to identify the man responsible for these unprovoked attacks.

“We are continuing to work closely with our local communities and are offering them the necessary support.

“As a result of our investigation, we now know that the man captured on CCTV was staying in a hostel.

“Were you there at the same time?

“Do you know anything that might help us?

“I would encourage anyone with information to call police.

“I would also urge this man to come forward and speak with us.

“It is vital that we bring these incidents to a conclusion.”

The 64-year-old victim suffered facial injuries and fell to the ground, breaking a bone in his foot.

He was taken to hospital for treatment and was later discharged.

He told the PA news agency on August 22 that he could not remember the incident as he had been knocked unconscious.

“I hit my head on the wall and that was it, I have no recollection,” he said

“The police are taking this extremely seriously because there is an awful lot of anxiety in the community, but we are a very tight knit, welcoming and loving community.”

The other two victims who have been identified suffered no lasting injuries.

Police said anyone who recognises the man in the CCTV images, or who witnessed any of the assaults and is yet to speak with officers, is asked to come forward.

They should call police on 101 quoting reference 4492/20AUG, or to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.