Police hunt man after two women sexually assaulted just minutes and metres apart in North London

A serial sex offender remains at large after two women were assaulted within minutes of each other on the streets of Islington, North London, sending shockwaves through the community. Police have launched a major manhunt, urging the public to remain alert and come forward with any information.

The disturbing attacks occurred on the evening of Sunday, March 9. At around 8:40 p.m., a woman in her twenties was walking along Cruikshank Street when she noticed a man following her. Moments later, he attacked her, before fleeing calmly in the direction of Great Percy Street. Just minutes later, and mere metres away, a second woman was sexually assaulted on Britannia Street.

The predator, undeterred by the proximity of his crimes, made his escape down Wicklow Street, disappearing into the night. Both incidents bear striking similarities in timing, location, and method, leading detectives to believe they were carried out by the same man.

The Metropolitan Police have released a partial description. The suspect is believed to be wearing a light-coloured T-shirt and a dark bomber jacket, with a dark baseball cap obscuring his face. He was last seen running from Britannia Street toward the King’s Cross area.

Locals have expressed outrage and fear as the details of the attacks spread. Islington, known for its vibrant streets and close-knit community, has been left shaken by the brazenness of the assaults. Residents are being urged to take precautions and to report any suspicious activity, no matter how insignificant it may seem.

“These are deeply disturbing incidents that have understandably caused alarm in the local area,” said a spokesperson from the Metropolitan Police. “Our officers are doing everything they can to identify and locate the man responsible, and we are appealing for any witnesses, dashcam footage, or CCTV that may assist our investigation.”

High-visibility patrols have been stepped up in the affected areas, and specialist officers are supporting the victims, who are said to be traumatised but cooperating with investigators.

Campaigners have also weighed in, calling for better lighting and CCTV coverage across vulnerable public routes. “This is a reminder that our streets are still not safe for women,” said one local organiser, who is planning a community-led safety initiative in response.

While no arrests have yet been made, detectives are following up on several leads and are working closely with forensic teams to recover any physical evidence that may help identify the attacker.

The police are asking anyone who was in the area between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. on March 9—particularly around Cruikshank Street, Britannia Street, or Wicklow Street—to contact them immediately. Even the smallest detail could prove crucial.

As fear spreads and public outrage mounts, the urgency to capture the attacker grows. The women of Islington, and the wider London community, are watching and waiting—hoping the man responsible for this reign of fear will soon be caught and brought to justice.