A mysterious masked figure has been popping up across London carrying out random acts of kindness, from paying for people's fuel to filling potholes. Known only as "London's Batman", the caped crusader has built up a large online following by turning up across the capital and offering help to strangers. After weeks of speculation, BBC London was invited to meet London's Batman, who insisted: "It's not about who I am underneath. It's what I do that defines me.” The invitation contained only a time and location, leaving plenty of uncertainty about what, or who, would appear. In a deserted alleyway, the dark figure eventually emerged. Asked why London needed a Batman, he said: "I believe that anyone can be a hero. I want to show the good in London. People are struggling and I want to help them.” The mystery surrounding his identity has become almost as popular as the good deeds themselves. Many online are convinced that the man behind the mask is YouTuber and prankster Niko Omilana, known for his viral stunt videos and past political campaigns. Omilana, however, has denied it. London's Batman insisted his mission was simple. "It's to help London and give them hope for a better tomorrow," he said. "I just want to help make the place better. Unite the people.” For many of those who have received a freebie, a helping hand, or simply a reason to smile, London's Batman is perhaps less about the identity and more about the idea.
