Man Charged With Rape and Kidnap in Merton
Vigilante gangs hunted suspect after video published on social media
A 26-year-old man from Mitcham has been charged with rape and kidnap after allegedly attacking a schoolgirl in Colliers Wood this Tuesday (3 November).
Kadian Nelson is accused of being responsible for an assault that occurred in North Place shortly before 7am.
Video footage, purportedly showing a girl being forced into a side street, was widely circulated on the internet and police had advised Mr Nelson to hand himself in for his own safety. There were a number of vigilante groups seeking to track him down in the belief he was responsible for the attack.
Mitcham and Morden MP Siobhain McDonagh said on Twitter that the girl was on her way to school when she was attacked.
She added, "The extraordinary bravery of a lady who followed and filmed them has almost certainly saved the victim from even further distress."
The police had to urge gangs of people ‘attending various addresses’ to go home and not interfere with the investigation.
A Section 60 stop and search order was authorised for Merton and Wandsworth areas following the attack.
People have been warned to not share information via social media which could identify the alleged victim or affect any future proceedings.
Det Supt Owain Richards said, "Do not try to take the law into your own hands or you may end up doing something you regret and potentially face police action yourself.”
Mr Nelson has appeared in custody at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court to face the two charges.
The girl and her family are being supported by specialist Metropolitan Police officers.
Any witness or anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or to remain anonymous Crimestoppers on 0800555111.
November 9, 2020