Detectives are appealing for information to identify a suspect involved in vandalising three Pride flags in Newham, east London, in incidents classified as homophobic hate crimes.
Detectives have released an image of an individual wanted in connection with the vandalism of three Pride flags in Newham, east London. The incidents, classified as homophobic hate crimes, involved red paint being daubed over the flags.
The first act took place early on Sunday, June 23, on a large Pride flag on the pavement outside Forest Gate railway station on Woodgrange Road. The flag, part of Newham Council’s Pride Month celebration, was soon repainted. However, further vandalism occurred on Wednesday, June 26, when two more flags were damaged at the same location.
Scotland Yard believes the same individual is responsible for all three offenses, which occurred between 5am and 5:30am on both days. Detective Inspector James Rush has requested the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect from images captured on June 26, noting the distinctive clothing might help.
No arrests have been made, and investigations are ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Metropolitan Police or Crimestoppers.
