Manhunt after two separate ‘crossbow attacks’ in east London

A manhunt is underway after two suspected crossbow attacks in east London, which police believe are linked.

A 44-year-old woman was allegedly hit in the head by a crossbow bolt while crossing the road at Clifton House in Shoreditch at around 7.44pm on Monday, March 4.

Then, at around 7.27pm on Thursday, March 14, a 20-year-old man was shot with a crossbow near Arnold Circus, about 60 meters from the scene of the first attack.

Both have been released from hospital and are not believed to have suffered life-changing injuries. police said, but there have been no reports of similar incidents.

Police are carrying out “urgent work” to identify the suspects and will deploy extra officers to the area over the weekend to “provide reassurance”.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway said his team was working to identify witnesses, studying CCTV footage and would update the community.

He added: “You may have seen something on the days when these crimes were committed, or you may have seen or heard something locally that you thought was suspicious and may be linked to these incidents.” He appealed to the public to come forward with information help.

“If you do have any information please come forward and contact us. You can contact police or you can call us on 101.

“I know local people will be distressed by these events but we would urge them to get on with their business.

“While our investigation is ongoing, it is important to remain vigilant and contact us with anything that appears to be concerning.”

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Police are working with Tower Hamlets Council to “leverage as many resources as possible”.

Anyone with information that could assist police is asked to call 101 and quote CAD 6663/14 Mar or “Operation Goldwater”.