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An urgent appeal for public assistance has been reissued by the Metropolitan Police as investigators continue their efforts to locate and identify a young woman reportedly kidnapped from the Canary Wharf area over a week ago.
The victim, whose identity remains unknown, is believed to be aged between 28 and 32. She was allegedly forced into a white Ford Transit tow truck by two men on Millharbour Road, near the junction of Lighterman’s Road, at approximately 11:25 pm on Saturday, September 30.
Despite an arrest being made swiftly after the incident, the woman's whereabouts are still unknown, raising serious concerns for her welfare.
Key Investigation Updates
A 42-year-old man from east London was arrested on suspicion of kidnap on Sunday, October 1, just one day after the reported incident. He has since been bailed as the Metropolitan Police’s Central East Criminal Investigations Unit continues its in-depth probe. Crucially, the police statement suggests the woman was reportedly forced into the van by two males, indicating at least one other individual is being sought in connection with the crime.
Detective Inspector Grant Stevens, who is leading the investigation, renewed his plea to the community today.
“We are keen to establish the circumstances surrounding this incident and are concerned for the welfare of the young woman involved, who we believe is aged between 28 and 32 and been unable to identify,” Detective Inspector Stevens stated. “Were you in or near Millharbour Road, E17 around the time of the incident and saw anything suspicious, or do you have any CCTV or mobile phone footage that will assist us with our enquiries?”
Lack of Victim Details Hinders Search
The Metropolitan Police have been unable to provide any further identifying details about the victim, including her ethnicity or country of origin. The urgency of the case is heightened by the complete lack of identifying information, making it difficult for friends, family, or colleagues to come forward and report her missing. This lack of information is highly unusual in a case of this severity and is a primary focus for investigators.
Public Reaction and Concern
The incident has sparked public discussion about the safety and security response in the area. A public comment from Rumsey Plumb highlights this concern: "You'd think more details would be provided. An arrest has been made, but no photo of suspect, to show the public.... oh, and it took awhile for the story to appear.... shocking, considering this is becoming somewhat of a regular occurrence these days."
The public's cooperation remains vital, both in identifying the victim and locating the second suspect and the white Ford Transit tow truck involved in the kidnapping.
Police urge anyone with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to immediately contact them via 101, quoting reference 01/8032774/25. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers.
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