The number of violent incidents and sexual offences at Abbey Wood station has increased, despite an overall drop in total crime numbers, according to the latest British Transport Police (BTP) data.
Crime Trends at Abbey Wood Station
Abbey Wood station, which is served by the Elizabeth Line, Southeastern, and Thameslink trains, recorded 70 crimes between February 2023 and January 2024. Nineteen of these were classified as violent or sexual offences.
Over the subsequent year, total reported crimes fell to 52. However, nearly half of these were violent or sexual in nature, marking a concerning rise in these types of offences.
On-Train Crime Trends
A similar pattern was observed in crimes committed on trains serving Abbey Wood. While overall crime on these services decreased, the number of violent and sexual incidents saw an increase.
Crime Trends at Nearby Stations
Abbey Wood serves as the closest station to Thamesmead, which currently lacks a dedicated railway station. Nearby Plumstead station, which is the second-closest station to the area, saw an overall increase in reported crimes during the same period. This included a rise in violent and sexual offences.
While crime committed on Southeastern and Thameslink trains at Plumstead more than halved, reports of violent or sexual offences doubled from two incidents to four.
Authorities Monitoring the Situation
With the rise in violent and sexual crimes at Abbey Wood and nearby stations, authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely and assess any necessary security measures to improve passenger safety.
Further updates will be provided as more details emerge.