Rape Investigation Update - Suspect charged

Dear Met Engage Users,

Officers have charged a man in connection with an investigation into the rape of a woman in West Barnes.

An investigation was launched on Thursday, 6 August following a report of a rape in the Meadowsweet Close area.

Jonilson Mendes De Souza, age 29, of Cartmel Gardens, Morden was arrested on Saturday, 8 August. He has since been charged with two counts of rape, kidnap, and non-fatal strangulation.

He appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates Court today, on Monday, 10th August. He was remanded into custody and is next due to appear at Kingston Crown Court on Friday, 4th September 2026.

Officers have been working diligently to progress this investigation alongside local policing teams and specialist officers.

The victim continues to be supported by officers, and we would like to thank the public for their support while enquiries have been carried out locally.

Please ensure that if you or anyone you know has information that can assist in the investigation, that they contact police on 101 as a priority. Please quote reference CAD 8883/06AUG.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.

Best wishes and kind regards.

Oli