Urgent hunt for thug with topknot who launched homophobic assault on man in his 50s – as police warn attacker has links to London, York and Sheffield

Police have released an image of a man with a topknot they want to trace following a homophobic assault in London – who may be carrying a knife.

Detectives say that Alex Ogden, 28 is of no fixed abode but has links to London, York and Sheffield. He is known to use the train network to travel around the country.

He is wanted in connection with an incident at an address in Islington, in the centre of the capital, in which Ogden is alleged to have violently assaulted a man in his 50s.

The Metropolitan Police says that comments made during the attack – which put the victim in hospital – have prompted the force to treat it as a homophobic hate crime. 

Ogden is also wanted after he failed to attend court on 31 August after being charged with three common assaults at York railway station.

Alex Ogden, 28, is wanted in connection with a homophobic assault said to have been committed in Islington

Ogden is also wanted by the Met Police in connection with failing to appear in court on common assault charges

Police describe Ogden as a stocky, white male with a distinctive haircut of a topknot and shaved sides. 

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His topknot is often braided into smaller plaits, or worn long, and he speaks with a Yorkshire accent.

Detective Constable Lauren Gresty, of the Met’s Central North Public Protection Unit is leading the homophobic assault investigation.

She is urging members of the public to assist the police in locating Ogden – but has warned people not to approach him, as he may be armed with a knife.

She said: ‘Ogden is a dangerous individual and it is crucial that he is located as a matter of urgency. 

‘He is wanted for a number of offences involving violence and theft, and has a history of violent offending.

‘Ogden may be in possession of a knife, and it is vital the members of the public do not approach him. 

‘If you see Ogden, or know where he is, it is imperative that you call 999 immediately.’

Anyone who has information that could help police the please call 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC quoting CAD 4274/30Oct.

To report information anonymously, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online or call 0800 555 111.