Brighton; 'Racist Rant' Investigated

11 June 2013, 13:38 | Updated: 11 June 2013, 13:40

A rail passenger who allegedly launched a tirade of "grotesque racist insults'' on a train has been urged to "do the right thing'' and turn himself in to police for questioning.

Darren Daly became the subject of a manhunt after footage was uploaded to YouTube in which a man can be seen calling another passenger a "monkey'' and a "gorilla'', and threatening to glass him with a beer bottle.

Other passengers were seen trying to placate the man who appeared heavily intoxicated.

The clip shows him brandishing a bottle and telling a passenger:  "I don't like being rudely awaken by a mongrel.''

The man, who speaks with a strong Irish accent, goes on to say he is not racist during the two minute, 46 second footage.

You can see the footage here but be aware, it does contain bad language

British Transport Police (BTP) have appealed for witnesses to the incident on a train near Brighton on May 26.

They would like to question Mr Daly on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence.

BTP's Inspector Gary Ancell said: "We are appealing for the whereabouts of Mr Daly, after a YouTube video of the incident taking place was brought to our attention by concerned members of the public.

"In a bid to trace him, we have visited four addresses over the past few days but, unfortunately, to no avail. However, our investigation continues and we are currently looking at CCTV opportunities, circulating information across police intelligence systems and to other forces.

"We are also asking for anyone with information about the incident to come forward as you may have information crucial to our investigation.''

Investigators are also urging anyone with information about Mr Daly's whereabouts to come forward.

Inspector Ancell said: "I am urging Mr Daly to do the right thing and come forward and speak to us.

"Everyone has the right to travel without fear of abuse or threatening behaviour. We take all reports of racism extremely seriously, and will do all in our power to trace the man responsible.''

Train operator Southern said rail neighbourhood officers at Brighton received a call from a conductor to help remove a man from his train after the alleged abuse.

The man was cautioned for fare evasion and his details were taken but the alleged victim did not want to pursue the matter.

Anyone with information is asked to call British Transport Police on 0800 405 040 or text them on 61016, quoting reference B7/LSA of 05/06/2013.