British Transport Police (BTP) have launched an urgent appeal after a man and a woman were attacked in two separate but believed to be connected incidents on Southeastern train services departing from London Bridge.

The first attack took place at around 9.30pm on Tuesday, March 18, when an elderly man was assaulted by three teenage girls onboard a train headed to Woolwich Arsenal. Witnesses say the trio approached the man and began attacking him before fleeing the train.

Just under two hours later, at approximately 11pm, a second elderly victim, a woman travelling on a train to Erith, was similarly targeted. She was approached by a girl matching the description of one of the previous assailants, who attempted to assault her. Another passenger intervened and was also threatened.

Police believe the same group of girls may have been involved in both incidents and have released CCTV images of three suspects. One of the girls is seen wearing a pink top under a black parka jacket with a fluffy hood, another had on a black jacket with a red logo on the arm and grey trousers, and the third was dressed in a black jacket with a grey tracksuit.

Public Urged to Assist

BTP is urging anyone who may recognise the suspects or who witnessed either incident to come forward. A spokesperson said:

“These were shocking and unprovoked attacks on elderly passengers. We are taking these incidents extremely seriously and are asking for the public’s help in identifying those responsible.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 770 of March 18. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.