A man arrested relation to a homophobic attack on two men outside the Two Brewers in Clapham has been released on bail.
The 19-year-old man was arrested in South Norwood on Thursday afternoon on suspicion of two counts of GBH. He was taken into custody and later released on bail.
Detective Superintendent Vanessa Britton, Central South Command Unit, said: “The two victims have been informed and continue to be supported by our officers, including our dedicated LGBT+ Community Liaison Officer (CLO).
“I know the concern and distress this horrific incident has caused among the LGBT+ community and I want to reassure them – and Londoners as a whole – that a team of officers is working diligently to investigate. We continue to urge witnesses and those with information that could assist our investigation to come forward.”
The incident happened at approximately 22:15hrs on Sunday, 13 August as the two men stood outside a nightclub – they were approached by a man who attacked them with a knife before running away.
Both men, aged in their 20s and 30s, were taken to hospital for treatment and have since been discharged.
Officers continue to follow-up a number of lines of enquiry provided by witnesses and members of the public.
PC Hayley Jones who is the dedicated LGBT+ Community Liaison Officer (CLO) for Lambeth and Southwark added:
“We understand some people from the LGBT+ community may not have the confidence to speak to police; my role was introduced to provide a dedicated LGBT+ point of contact to support the community and advise on investigations where homophobia and transphobia is a motive. You can contact me directly for advice and support, or to assist this investigation.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD 7198/13Aug. You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
If you wish to contact the Lambeth and Southwark LGBT+ CLO please contact PC Hayley Jones on 07825101104 or Hayley.Jones@met.police.uk.
