Women Allegedly Assaulted by Masseur


Man Arrested over offences that took place at local beauty salon

Hammersmith and Fulham Police are investigating two separate allegations of indecent assault believed to have occurred at a beauty salon on the Fulham Road since January 2004.

The first occurred in early January. The victim a 30-year-old woman had booked a Swedish massage at the salon.

She was met by a male masseur who led her into the massage room. During the massage an alleged indecent assault took place comprising of excessive contact inappropriate to a massage. The victim did not immediately report the incident, as she believed it was a professional massage and felt embarrassed. It was only after talking to friends that she decided to report the matter to Police in late January.

A further allegation was made to police in early February by a 34-year-old woman who alleged she too was indecently assaulted by a male at the same location in January.

Detective Constable James Townly of the CID at Fulham said:"The salon is situated on the Fulham Road and appears to be an extremely professional venue. These women have placed an element of trust in the salon and it's staff and appear to have been indecently assaulted. I appeal to anyone who has suffered an experience of a similar nature to contact police urgently."

Anyone who wishes to speak to police in confidence can call CID at Fulham on 0208-246-2945.

A 51-year-old man was arrested yesterday morning in connection with the investigation. He has been bailed to return to a West London Police station next month.

April 28, 2004