UK police looking for Indian 'tantrik'

The UK police is looking for an Indian-origin man who posed as a 'spiritual healer' and allegedly sexually assaulted a teenager.

Scotland Yard has issued the appeal for Viswanathan Shadtray, who allegedly sexually assaulted the 18-year-old victim in east London's Newham area when she and her mother approached him for healing.

"The suspect posed as a spiritual healer and in doing so gained the victim's trust. He preyed on a vulnerable young woman in a cold and calculated way," detective Constable David Poole said.

"I am appealing for anyone who has any information on Viswanathan Shadtray's whereabouts to come forward and I am also appealing for any other victims to contact police," he said.

The victim had been suffering from headaches and thought visiting a man who claimed to be a healer would help, the police said.

The incident occurred last year, and the police have been seeking information about the 'spiritual healer' since then.

He is described as being around 40 years old, with thick curly black hair, a moustache and beard.

According to the police, the victim and her mother arrived at an address in Newham, which they believed was a venue where spiritual healing took place.

The Indian community has often been targeted by 'spiritual healers' who are either based in the UK or travel from India. Many advertise their 'expertise' through the Asian media.