Police have released an image of a man they want to speak to in connection with a homophobic attack outside a Clapham nightclub.
Two men, one aged in their 20s and the other in their 30s, were stabbed outside the Two Brewers Venue on Clapham High Street at roughly 10.15pm on Sunday.
Both men have since been discharged from hospital.
Detectives have released a CCTV image taken from outside the venue at the time of the attack.
Detective Chief Inspector Jivan Saib from the Central South Command Unit said: “I am asking the public to look at this image and see if they recognise this individual – it is vital that we identify and locate him as soon as possible.
“Officers have already collated witness accounts and scoured CCTV for evidence and this work remains ongoing.
“I appreciate those who have come forward and spoken to police but would ask that if you were in the area and saw these events unfold, but have yet to contact us, then please do so.”
Enquiries are ongoing to locate and arrest the suspect, police said.
PC Hayley Jones who is the dedicated LGBT+ Community Liaison Officer (CLO) for Lambeth and Southwark said: “We understand some people from the LGBT+ community may not have the confidence to speak to police; my role was introduced to provide a dedicated LGBT+ point of contact to support the community and advise on investigations where homophobia and transphobia is a motive.”
She said that members of the LGBT+ community could contact her directly for advice and support or to assist this investigation.
“I’ve not been left feeling sad, nor angry, or confused,” he wrote. “I’ve just been left so many questions.”
He said it has led him to ponder what can make someone “feel it’s OK [to] attack anyone...and how we change that”.
“What today has strengthened in me more than ever before is that I could never, and have never be (sic) prouder, happier, or more comforted by the community I am lucky enough to have as my LGBTQ+ family,” he added.
“I would NEVER change it for the world...I am so lucky to have all my family and friends who have reached out just to check on me today.”
Witnesses praised security staff at the Two Brewers, who reportedly helped keep other patrons safe from the attack.
One described leaving the premises to find “police everywhere”. “It was horrific,” they said.
“We were having the best time then something like this happened. I literally cried all the way home thinking that could have been any of our lot. Also those poor guys. It’s f****ing 2023 I’m still shaken by it today.”
Drag performer Mary Mac, who was at the venue on Sunday, said: “It’s shocking and disgusting that in 2023 this is becoming frighteningly more frequent.
“The team at The Two Brewers were incredible in dealing with this and keeping us inside the venue safe, glad the victims have been discharged and hope they are with loved ones now to help.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD 7198/13Aug.
