Violent New Year’s Day attack at Waterloo Station: police appeal

PC Krishan Appannah, leading the investigation, wants to speak to the man pictured, or anyone who knows him, in connection with the attack which took place on the morning of New Year's Day.

PC Appannah said: "The victim in this case is a 22-year-old man from Hampshire, who got into a debate with another man he didn't know on the concourse of London Waterloo overground station at approximately 6.15am.

"What initially started out as banter escalated and a confrontation between the two men took place near the taxi rank outside the station exit.

"The victim was punched repeatedly in the face during the unprovoked attack, which left him with a deep cut to his left eyelid, a bloodshot eye and significant bruising.

"The suspect ran off into the streets in the direction of the IMAX cinema."

The images released today show a man police believe was at the station at the time and may have information to assist the investigation.

PC Appannah added: "This attack was vicious and entirely uncalled-for, which has left the victim with nasty injuries on what should have been a day of celebration.

"The capital was full of people returning from their New Year's celebrations and members of the public came into London from all over the country, so we are confident someone will recognise this man."

Anyone who recognises the man is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B16/LSA of 07/02/2013. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.