Investigators from British Transport Police (BTP) are appealing for information after a man was attacked at Putney rail station on Thursday, 16 February.

Officers have also released CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident, which happened around 11.50pm.

PC Billie-Jean Ayling, the investigating officer, is appealing to anyone who may have information about the incident to come forward:

“The 40-year-old victim, from Wandsworth, tried to use the onboard toilet after boarding the service at Waterloo but couldn’t because another passenger, standing inside the cubicle and talking on his mobile phone, refused to leave.

“When both men left the train at Putney station, the victim asked the man why he had refused to let him use the toilet. In return, the man pushed him in the chest, causing the victim to fall to the floor before punching and kicking him.  The man continued to lash out even when a fellow passenger stepped in to assist the victim, who was left with cuts and bruises to his face and neck.”

Officers are currently making local enquiries, speaking with witnesses and are circulating images on police intelligence systems, but PC Ayling is asking for the public’s help:

“Do you recognise the man? Are you the man himself? If so, I urge you to get into contact. Thankfully these types of offences are very rare on the rail network; however we are taking this incident very seriously and are determined to catch the man responsible.  If you saw anything, please come forward and speak to us.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference B7/LSA of 14/03/12.

Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

March 21, 2012