By Sammie Jones-
Police are desperately trying to trace a man they suspect of committing multiple rapes in East London.
Detectives from the Met’s North East Command Unit have urged women walking alone late at night to be extra vigilant after two rapes in the area. The first rape occurred in a residential street in Plaistow Newham, at around 2.40am when a 35 year old woman was raped by a man who attacked her from behind by a man.
The attacker raped her and also stole property.Another incident occurred five days later when a 31-year-old woman was raped and robbed by a man who approached her in Amethyst Road, Waltham Forest, on Saturday at 4.20am. The two rapes has shocked and alarmed locals who don’t know when the man may strike next. Strangely, the attacker appears to have targeted women in their thirties, but there is no way of telling if he could also target younger women or even teenagers.
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Outright rapes like these are not common place in East London, but cops are concerned he may strike again. Cops have released an image of a man they are keen to trace, which was captured on a bus in Plaistow shortly before the first incident. There is no evidence he is the culprit, but cops believe he fits the description of the attacker given.
Detective Superintendent Andrew Packer said: “These incidents have been deeply traumatic for the victims, who are being supported by specialist officers.
“My teams are completing a detailed review of all the facts available so far. In addition to a dedicated investigation team we have extra patrols in the area to provide reassurance and these officers are actively seeking to arrest this suspect.
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“Please have a good look at this photo and let my officers know if you have any idea who this man is.
“I would advise any women walking alone at night to remain vigilant, to be mindful of their surroundings, and to keep family and friends informed of where they may be going. If you see anything you think is suspicious, do not hesitate – call 999 immediately.”
Image: Met North East Command Unit
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