British Transport Police (BTP) are appealing for information after a member of DLR staff was verbally abused and then had her mobile phone snatched.

Officers have released CCTV images of a man they believe can help with their enquiries into the incident which occurred at around 9am onboard a train between Stratford and Lewisham on Friday 14 January.

The member of staff asked to check the passenger’s Oyster Card but the man became aggressive and verbally abused her. He then snatched her mobile phone before fleeing Crossharbour station.

BTP Detective Constable Paul Miller, the investigating officer, said that the incident caused the ticket inspector, a 40-year-old woman from London, great distress.

DC Miller said: “The staff member was left very shaken. Our members of staff should be able to go about their duties without the fear of abuse or violence. We are appealing for anyone who recognises the man in the CCTV images to come forward and assist us with our enquiries.”

Anyone with information about the identity of the man, or his whereabouts, are asked to contact the British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference B13/LUA of 01/02/2011, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.