A stolen handbag could provide the key to a police investigation into a violent sex attack, detectives said.
Officers investigating an attempted rape and robbery in Plaistow are appealing to anyone who may have been offered the stolen bag to come forward.
A 22-year-old woman was walking along Morley Road, E15 in the early hours of Tuesday, September 1, when at around half past midnight a man approached and threatened her with a knife.
The man stole property from the woman, including her bag, and then sexually assaulted her, before a passer-by overheard the attack and intervened as he ran off.
An investigation was launched by the Met's Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command and on Friday, September 4 a 37-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of robbery and attempted rape.
He has been bailed whilst this investigation continues, and officers have also identified the passer-by who is assisting with the investigation.
However, detectives are keen to trace anyone who may have seen - or has since been offered - the stolen bag, which now forms a key part of the investigation and has yet to be recovered.
The bag is described as a light green ‘tote’ bag with stud detail.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Graham Alger on 0208 217 7474 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
