Metropolitan Police are actively seeking two Bangladeshi nationals, Showkoth Ahmed, 31, and Jahidul Hassan Jaigirdar, 34, for questioning in relation to the rape of a 13-year-old girl in east London. The incident occurred on August 1, 2024, in Weavers Fields, Bethnal Green.
Detectives were alerted to the assault around 11:30 p.m. The victim reported that she had encountered two men on Whitechapel Road, who then persuaded her to follow them into the nearby park, where the alleged rape took place. She was later discovered by a member of the public.
Authorities have identified Ahmed and Jaigirdar as the men they wish to trace. Ahmed is believed to remain in the UK and has connections to the Tower Hamlets area. Jaigirdar also has links to Tower Hamlets but is thought to have traveled to Bangladesh.
The victim's parents issued a statement through the Metropolitan Police, describing the 'devastating' impact of the attack. They stated their daughter lives in fear and no longer feels safe being alone, requiring constant accompaniment. They added that much of her ability to enjoy her teenage years has been taken away.
Detective Chief Inspector Anna Deighton, leading the investigation, confirmed that extensive inquiries have been conducted, including forensic examinations, witness interviews, and CCTV analysis. She thanked the public for their cooperation with previous appeals, which have aided the investigation.
"We are now naming Ahmed and Jaigirdar as men we need to trace and speak to," Deighton stated. "We believe Ahmed remains in the UK and Jaigirdar may have travelled to Bangladesh. We are asking anyone who knows their whereabouts, or who has information that could assist our investigation, to come forward immediately. We would also urge Ahmed and Jaigirdar to contact police."
The charity Crimestoppers has offered a reward of up to £10,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Alexa Loukas, Regional Manager for London at Crimestoppers, emphasized the importance of locating the individuals, urging anyone with information to contact the charity anonymously.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the police on 101, quoting reference 01/668295/24, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website.