Police seek suspect after gunman threatened cyclist

HE WAS minding his own business, cycling northbound on Kingsland Road, Hackney, E8. As he drew level with the junction with Bradbury Street, a man on the pavement pointed what he believes was a handgun at him.

The cyclist sped on his way. He was then able to flag down some passing police officers. A witness had seen the whole incident and reported the matter to the police – corroborating the cyclist’s story.

Police have now released a CCTV image of a man they wish to identify, locate and speak to about the incident, which took place at around 1pm on 27th May. The man is described as black, around 6ft tall and of broad build. He had a black but greying beard and was wearing tatty looking dark clothing.

Detective Constable James Readman, who is investigating the matter, said, “This was a totally random incident and involved a completely innocent member of the public being targeted with a weapon in broad daylight. The victim was understandably terrified and fled the scene as quickly as possible, but we do have a good description of the suspect.

“We urgently need to trace the man in this CCTV image, as he may be key to our enquiries. We also want to speak to any other witnesses who may have seen the suspect in area between 13:00hrs and 13:09hrs, or thereabouts, in the area of the incident. The weapon was described as a small metallic looking pistol type gun, dark grey to black in colour.

“Luckily, nobody was physically injured but the psychological impact of such a shocking event cannot be underestimated. There is also of course the huge concern that a weapon remains in the possession of someone who clearly should not have it.”

●Anyone who has information which could assist police is asked to call them via 101 and quote reference CAD 3850/27May. Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800-555 111 and give information anonymously.

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