Police step up hunt for serial rapist who assaulted two women in separate attacks - as disturbing CCTV footage shows suspect grabbing a woman on the street

The Metropolitan Police have stepped up a hunt to find an alleged double rapist who has been linked to two sexual assaults on the streets of London. 

The first assault is said to have taken place in the early hours of May 5, 2018 close to the Strand in Westminster while the second took place on December 10, 2022 in Shoreditch. 

The force have again released CCTV footage of the moments before the second attack - where the suspect is seen leading an unwilling woman along a pavement and hugging her as she is visibly distressed.

The Met also released an e-fit of the alleged double rapist as they step up their man hunt.

In the sickening video, the man is seen locking his arm with the woman's as he walks her down the dark street. 

The woman is clearly unhappy as she unravels their arms and steps backwards as she crosses her arms tightly with a fence to her back. 

The man then wraps his arms around her and turns her before rubbing her back inappropriately. 

The police said that forensic work by detectives have established that the same, as yet unidentified, man is responsible for both crimes, and officers are keen to hear from any further potential victims, as well as anyone who believes they may know the attacker. 

DI Chris Heathcote, responsible for investigating rape and serious offences in east London, said: 'These two offences were initially investigated by separate teams given the distance between the two incidents, however we have since been able to forensically link the same individual to both offences. 

'Given the four-year gap, we must assume that it’s highly likely the suspect has carried out further attacks. 

'A review of all unsolved rapes for this time period has identified no links to these two offences, but I would appeal to anyone who feels they have been a victim to come forward.' 

'The suspect involved in both incidents appears to target lone women in the night time economy. 

He added: 'I understand there will be concern that this individual remains outstanding, but can offer every assurance that we are taking all possible steps to ensure he is found and brought to justice for these awful crimes.

'If you believe you have been a victim or recognise the man from any of the material released please come forward. Any information – no matter how small – could help us with our investigation.'

Anyone with information which could assist the investigation team is asked to contact 101 quoting CAD 6163/26MAR24.