Police are searching for a man after a shocking Northern Line crime—caught performing a sex act while staring at a woman on a train

A shocking Northern Line crime has sparked a police hunt after a man brazenly performed a sex act while locking eyes with a woman passenger. The horrifying incident, which happened late at night on the London Underground, left the victim shaken and terrified as the suspect shamelessly targeted her in plain sight.

The woman was travelling between Balham and Old Street at around 11.40 pm on 22 August last year when she noticed a man sitting directly across from her. As the train rumbled through the tunnels, he suddenly began masturbating, never breaking eye contact.

An image taken on a mobile phone shows the suspect wearing a red designer jacket, holding what appears to be a Valentino bag, and wearing Apple AirPods.

Police Appeal for Information

British Transport Police (BTP) have now launched an investigation and are appealing for help to identify the man. They believe he may have crucial information that could aid their inquiries.

A spokesperson for BTP said: “Detectives would like to speak to the man in the image who they believe may have information that could help their investigation. All reports of sexual assault are taken seriously, and any information provided can help build a bigger picture.”

Authorities are urging anyone who recognises the suspect or may have witnessed similar incidents to come forward. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of female passengers travelling alone on the Tube, especially at night.

A Disturbing Pattern?

While it is unclear if the suspect has targeted others before, police are keen to hear from any other victims who may have encountered similar behaviour. Reports of sexual offences on public transport have been rising in recent years, sparking demands for increased security measures and surveillance on the Tube.

Transport authorities have been working to tackle such incidents by deploying more uniformed and undercover officers across the network. However, many victims still feel unsafe, particularly on late-night trains.

Public Urged to Help Catch the Suspect

Anyone who recognises the man is urged to contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference number 2400106476.

Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.