Police have launched a Clapham bar rape investigation following serious allegations involving a staff member at a popular South London venue.
Officers from the Metropolitan Police Service have called on Lambeth Council to temporarily suspend the licence of Aquum in Clapham, where a woman claims she was sexually assaulted after being given free drinks by an employee.
Clapham Bar Rape Investigation: Met Police Push to Suspend Aquum’s Licence
The alleged incident took place on the evening of 29 March. According to the woman’s account, she and her friends were approached by a staff member who offered them complimentary drinks and shots throughout the night. She later alleges that the same man led her to a private section of the upstairs bar—an area off-limits to the public—where he then assaulted her.
A 26-year-old man was arrested on Saturday, 12 April, on suspicion of rape. He has since been released on bail while officers continue their enquiries.
Police Urge Immediate Licence Suspension
In a formal application submitted to Lambeth Council on 9 April, the Met Police requested an urgent review of Aquum’s premises licence.
“As a result of serious crime and disorder being alleged at the venue and to ensure the immediate safeguarding of young female patrons potentially attending the venue, the MPS (Metropolitan Police Service) are requesting a summary review of the premises licence with the interim steps of immediate suspension of the licence.”
The Licensing Committee convened privately on 10 April to consider the police request. The final decision from the council is expected to be published in due course.
Aquum, which promotes itself online as Clapham’s “ultimate all-in-one late night bar and restaurant,” is currently permitted to remain open until 4am on Fridays and Saturdays and until 3am on other nights, under its existing licensing conditions.
With ongoing concerns around nightlife safety, recent updates to UK alcohol licensing laws for takeaway pints in 2025 highlight broader reforms affecting bars and pubs.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed: “Officers are investigating a rape which was reported on Wednesday, April 2 and allegedly took place on Saturday, March 29, at a venue on Clapham High Street.
A 26-year-old man was arrested on Saturday, April 12 on suspicion of rape and has been released on bail while investigations continue. The victim continues to be supported by specialist officers.”
The investigation remains ongoing as police work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
