Police identified a subway passenger Thursday who was photographed groping the woman sitting next to him on metro Line 9, local media reported.

The witness posted the photos on a popular Internet forum Sunday. The photos showed a man touching a woman's leg with his left hand, according to a report on the news website eastday.com.

The woman, who was wearing shorts, didn't shout out, but only moved her handbag between herself and the man, the report said. However, the man continued to stretch his hand toward her leg. He followed her even after she stood up and moved to the door, touching her leg one more time before getting off the train.

Although police have identified the man with the help of the photos, they cannot take further measures because the woman hasn't come forward, the report said.

The witness told the police that he encouraged the victim to call the police, but she refused, even after he offered to testify.

The city's metro police have started a campaign to crack down on sexual harassment on the subway. They encourage female passengers to shout for help or call the police if they are harassed.

Global Times