METRO Vancouver Transit Police said on Friday they have arrested a man who allegedly groped a teenage girl at a bus stop in Surrey.

On June 28 at approximately 9 p.m., a man in his late 30s approached a teenage girl who was waiting for a bus at Scottsdale Exchange in Surrey. He allegedly attempted to engage her in conversation and tried to kiss her, despite her telling him that she was only 16 years old. He then grabbed her buttocks before pulling her into his lap and exposing his genitals to her. Two other women in the bus loop noticed the commotion and confronted the suspect who fled on foot, police said.

The Metro Vancouver Transit Police General Investigation and Criminal Intelligence Units launched a comprehensive investigation that led them to identify the suspect, who is known to police. On October 16, the suspect was arrested and released with conditions not attend the Scottsdale Bus Exchange, pending his court appearance. Transit Police will be forwarding a recommended charge of sexual assault to the BC Prosecution Service.

“We understand how difficult it can be to report a sexual offence and commend the victim for coming forward so the suspect can be held accountable for his actions. We are asking the two bystanders who intervened to also come forward and speak with our investigators,” said Constable Amanda Steed.

Police said anyone who experiences or witnesses sexual harassment, unwanted touching, or indecent acts on transit is encouraged to report it. Call 604-515-8300 or text 87.77.77 to file a report with Transit Police. Always call 911 in an emergency.