Hunt for bus groper begins as police release images after man grabbed teenage girl through seats

Police are today hunting for a man who grabbed a teenage girl through the seats of a bus after making ‘inappropriate comments’.

The victim was travelling from Margate to Broadstairs, Kent, on March 27 when a man who boarded in Cliftonville sat down in the seat behind her.

He attempted to speak to the girl but she did not answer him, Kent Police said.  

She then ‘felt a hand come through the gap in the seats and touch over her clothing’ during the incident, which took place between 5.50pm and 6.20pm.

The teenager was able to depart the bus at Broadstairs without further issue.

Police today released CCTV images of the alleged groper as officers begin to investigate the report of inappropriate behaviour on public transport.

The man is pictured wearing a black, zip-up jacket, with grey trousers and black trainers. He has dark hair styled in a short crew cut.

Officers are hoping to identify and speak to a man pictured in the CCTV images as he may be able to assist with enquiries.

Kent Police said: ‘CCTV images of a man have been released by officers investigating a report of inappropriate behaviour on public transport in Thanet.

‘A teenage girl reported she was travelling on a bus from Margate to Broadstairs when a man boarded in Northdown Road, Cliftonville, before sitting behind her and making inappropriate comments.

‘The victim declined to talk to the man but then felt a hand come through the gap in the seats and touch her over clothing.’ 

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/50772/21.