Police are appealing for information after a security guard was racially abused at Bethnal Green Road’s Boxpark pop-up mall.

Investigators have today released CCTV of a man they would like to identify in connection with the assault, which took place on Tuesday, 10 April.

Sgt Emma Weir, investigating officer, said: “The victim, a 34-year-old security guard, was standing outside one of the stores in Boxpark as staff were leaving for the day.

“A man approached him and asked if he could use one of the store’s toilets. The guard explained that the store did not have a toilet and pointed him in the direction of a public toilet nearby.

“The man continued his demands to enter the shop, which the guard again refused.

“The man then made racially offensive remarks to the victim, which were overheard by several other people close by.

“Fearing for his safety, the guard closed himself in the shop until the man left. He was then seen walking along Bethnal Green Road towards Liverpool Street station.”

Officers are conducting several lines of inquiry into the incident including speaking to witnesses and viewing CCTV in and around the area.

Sergeant Weir added: “This was a frightening experience for the guard who was faced with threatening behaviour and vile racial abuse.

“This kind of behaviour will not be tolerated by British Transport Police and I’d urge anyone who may recognise the man pictured to come forward and help officers in this investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting B7/LNA of 17/05/2012. Information can also be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.