The Metropolitan Police have arrested a man on suspicion of rape after an attack in the Merton area.
Kadian Nelson, 26, was arrested in Robinson Road in Tooting at around 8:00pm last night, following a phone call from a member of the public.
The Met Police expressed their gratitude to members of the public for their support after launching an appeal earlier in the day.
Police were alerted to the incident after an allegation of rape was received shortly after 7:00am in the North Place area of Merton.
A teenage girl is being supported by police.
Police reminded the public to mindful about sharing information surrounding the case on social media, in an attempt to protect the alleged victim’s identity and to avoid influencing any future proceedings.
Detective Superintendent Owain Richards, from the South West Basic Command Unit (BCU), said: “Our investigation continues at fast pace and detectives have been working round the clock to piece together what happened.
“We continue to provide specialist support to the victim and her family and, while I’m confident this was an isolated incident, local officers will be carrying out extra patrols in the area over the coming days.
“I’d like to thank the local community for their response to our appeal to locate a suspect and commend the bravery shown by the young girl who challenged the suspect.”
He added: “A Section 60 Order has been authorised for the entirety of the Borough of Merton and Wandsworth, granting police additional stop and search powers, as a result of fears of serious violence.”
This Section 60 order remains in place.
Any witnesses or those who have information that could assist police are asked to call 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting reference 1063/03Nov.
Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
