The Metropolitan Police have launched a manhunt for a suspect after a woman was assaulted in Sidcup on the evening of January 7th.

The incident, which occurred around 8:40 PM on Mallard Walk, left the victim with her hair forcibly cut off by an unknown assailant.

This attack has prompted an increase in police presence in the area, with extra patrols being deployed to reassure residents and deter further incidents.

The move comes in response to a wave of social media posts circulating online, warning of similar attacks allegedly occurring in the district of Foots Cray, adjacent to Sidcup.

One widely-shared Facebook post has alarmed local residents by suggesting that a man is 'randomly attacking women from behind’ and has a proclivity for cutting hair.

Although these reports have sparked concern, the Metropolitan Police have so far only confirmed a single incident of this nature.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated, 'We are aware of social media posts regarding assaults on women in the Sidcup area.

We can confirm we responded to a single incident that occurred on Tuesday, 7 January at 20:41 hrs in Mallard Walk, in which a woman reported having her hair cut by a man.'

In an effort to provide safety and reassurance, local law enforcement has increased 'high visibility patrols' in the affected areas.

They urge anyone with further information or who has experienced a similar crime to come forward.

The public can contribute to the investigation by contacting the police via the 101 phone line, anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111, or through the online reporting system at www.met.police.uk/report, quoting reference 6616/07Jan.

As the investigation progresses, the Metropolitan Police continue to diligently work towards apprehending the individual responsible and preventing any further incidents from disturbing the peace in this community.