In 2026, the Offender Database recorded that Greater Manchester Police (GMP) launched a public appeal to identify a man in connection with the sexual assault of two young girls on the tram network. Following an investigation by the GMP Transport Unit, CCTV images were released of a suspect linked to two separate predatory attacks. It was reported that the first victim, a 16-year-old girl, was targeted on 31 October 2019, while traveling between Piccadilly Gardens and Cornbrook, Manchester.
The investigation established that a second child, aged 12, was sexually assaulted just over two weeks later on 15 November 2019. GMP reported that this second attack occurred on a tram between Piccadilly Gardens and Altrincham, Greater Manchester. A few hours after the second assault, a witness reported seeing a man behaving inappropriately on a tram traveling between Market Street and Old Trafford, suggesting a persistent pattern of predatory behavior.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The investigation reported that the suspect utilized the busy transport network to target vulnerable minors during the late afternoon and early evening hours. Sergeant Nick Bamber, of GMP’s Transport Unit, stated that the reports were treated with the utmost seriousness as part of a commitment to making the transport network safe. The investigation established that despite the passage of time since the incidents, the pursuit of the suspect remained active due to the high risk posed to the public.
Officers believe that because the offences occurred at peak travel times in high-traffic locations, there are witnesses who can assist in identifying the individual. The investigation established that the suspect’s movements across various tram lines—including those serving Altrincham and Old Trafford—were being meticulously tracked through digital forensic analysis of CCTV footage and passenger reports.
Status and Statutory Requirements
For the crimes reported in England, the status of the investigation as of March 2026 was as follows:
- Suspect Status: Wanted for questioning (CCTV Appeal Active).
- Offences: Sexual assault of a child under 13; Sexual assault of a child under 16; Indecent exposure/Inappropriate behavior.
- Investigating Unit: Greater Manchester Police Transport Unit.
- Reporting Reference: Quote 1005 20/11/19 when calling 0161 856 3155.
- Anonymous Reporting: Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
- Locations: Piccadilly Gardens, Cornbrook, Altrincham, Market Street, and Old Trafford.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Authorities state that the unidentified suspect is considered a high priority due to the predatory nature of targeting children in public spaces. As the offender remains at large, transport police have increased patrols across the Manchester Metrolink to ensure public protection. Any individual matching the description in the CCTV who is seen loitering near tram stations or approaching unaccompanied minors will be subject to immediate police intervention.
As the suspect has not yet been apprehended, his details have been circulated to all UK forces to prevent him from targeting children on other regional transport networks. Authorities state that his behavior demonstrates a calculated fixation on young girls. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any information that could lead to an arrest to ensure that this predator is brought to justice and his details are added to the national police database for life.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.