Surrey RCMP believes series of recent sexual assaults may be linked

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After multiple sexual assault reports in Surrey recently, police now believe the incidents may be linked to one another.

“The files are linked as possibly being connected due to their geographic location and the identification of a suspect vehicle,” said Surrey RCMP in a release.

April 24: At approximately 1 am, a woman was sexually assaulted as she walked in the area of 84 Avenue and King George Boulevard. The woman was grabbed by the arm and groped by a male suspect who was passing in the opposite direction. The suspect fled when the woman screamed.
May 20: At approximately 5:16 am, a woman was walking in the area of 144 Street and 76 Avenue when she was grabbed by the arm and groped by a male suspect who was passing in the opposite direction. The woman fought back and the suspect fled.
May 21: At approximately 4:45 am, a woman was walking east on 72 Avenue at 134 Street when she was grabbed from behind and sexually assaulted by an unknown male. The woman broke free from the male and he fled on foot west on 72 Avenue.

In each of the cases, police said, the suspect is described as a South Asian male, approximately 5’10” tall, with a medium build and dark hair. He may or may not have facial hair at this time.

A composite sketch of the suspect (Surrey RCMP)

As the investigation continues, police are also examining five other incidents which occurred between March 15, and May 24, 2018 to determine if they may be connected to the same suspect.

“Sexual assaults are disturbing crimes and can generate apprehension in the community,” said Surrey RCMP Staff Sgt. Beth McAndie. “On behalf of the Surrey RCMP I want to assure you that we are committed to public safety and locating the person responsible for these incidents.”

Police officers are also actively actively searching a suspect vehicle in connection with the incidents.

A suspect vehicle in connection with the case.(Surrey RCMP)

“Sometimes we see a series of incidents such as this after a person has gone through a personal crisis,” said McAndie. “If this is the case, we encourage you to come forward to speak to us.”

“The information we have released to the public about these incidents is not intended to raise fear, but to raise awareness about this investigation,” she added.

“We want community members to know that we are looking for a man who has violated women in Surrey, and we are asking for your help to locate him and the suspect vehicle.”

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