Transit Police have released images of a suspect in a controversial SkyTrain assault earlier this month.
The July 15 attack, in which Ravinder Sidhu was beaten and bloodied at the Surrey Central SkyTrain station, sparked criticism about TransLink's security measures.
Sidhu had his watch and some gifts he was carrying stolen.
Images released Tuesday show a suspect described as a Hispanic male, 5'9", 160 lbs. in his early-to-mid 30s. Officers say he may have a bite mark on his calf from Sidhu.
Transit Police Sgt. Tom Seaman says he is confident the images will lead to an arrest.
"It's certainly going to be very beneficial," he said. "We've had numerous tips on pictures we've put in the media, some within hours of posting."
Critics charged that Sidhu's assault was not discovered by TransLink security staff, even though it took place in view of a surveillance camera.
Seaman says the Surrey station alone has about 30 cameras, which would make constant surveillance of all areas difficult -- and that officers were at least able to respond quickly once called.
"The SkyTrain attendant was at the scene within two minutes," Seaman said. "The officers were there a couple minutes after that."
"What we are thankful for is when an incident does occur more often than not we get good footage from the CCTV (closed circuit television) cameras."
Still, Surrey-Newton MLA Harry Bains says he's trying to see new measures implemented.
'We're hoping to get a security person present at all times at every station," he said. "That is not happening right now."
If anyone recognizes the suspect, they are asked to contact Transit Police at 604-515-8300.
