Key Points
- CCTV image released of suspect after knife attack in Plaistow
- Incident occurred at 19:20hrs on Wednesday, 26 February on Barking Road near Tunmarsh Lane
- Victim, a man in his 50s, slashed in the face without warning while waiting at a bus stop
- Victim did not know the attacker; no words exchanged before assault
- Injury left a large scar on victim’s face
- Police call the attack “completely unprovoked”
- Met Police appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage
- Detective Constable Karen Barker leading the investigation
- Public urged to contact police via 101, X @MetCC, or anonymously via Crimestoppers
A manhunt is underway after a shocking and unprovoked knife attack in Plaistow left a bus passenger with serious facial injuries, prompting detectives to issue a CCTV still of the suspect.
What happened during the knife attack in Plaistow?
The Metropolitan Police are appealing for public help after a man in his 50s was violently assaulted while standing at a bus stop on Barking Road, near the junction with Tunmarsh Lane, E13. The incident took place at approximately 19:20hrs on Wednesday, 26 February.
The suspect approached the victim from behind and suddenly slashed him across the face with a knife. There were no words exchanged between the two, and the victim did not recognise the attacker. The suspect walked away from the scene immediately after the assault.
What injuries did the victim suffer?
The victim sustained a serious injury that required hospital treatment. Though his condition was not life-threatening, the attack left him with a large scar across his face. The physical and psychological impact of the unprovoked act is being taken seriously by investigators.
What are the police saying about the case?
Detective Constable Karen Barker, who is leading the investigation, described the attack as completely unprovoked and said the suspect poses a serious danger to the public.
“The person responsible is extremely dangerous and needs to be caught,” she said. “We are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time, or any road users with camera footage, to contact us immediately.”
How can witnesses help the investigation?
Police are asking anyone who witnessed the assault or who may have dashcam or mobile footage from the area around 19:20hrs on 26 February to come forward. Even small details could help identify the suspect.
Members of the public can call 101 or contact police via X @MetCC, quoting the reference number 01/7208073/25. Alternatively, those wishing to remain anonymous can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Where exactly did the incident occur?
The attack took place on Barking Road, a busy stretch in the Plaistow area of Newham, East London. The location is known for its traffic and public transport routes, raising the likelihood that someone nearby may have seen the suspect.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police are determined to track down the individual responsible. Anyone with information is urged to come forward immediately.
