Police hunt Walthamstow sex attacker who has assaulted five women and girls aged between 12 and 22

Detectives are appealing for the public's help to identify a suspect following a series of sexual assaults in Walthamstow.

The Met is investigating five reports of girls and women aged between 12 and 22 being sexually assaulted in the area around Hoe Street and Wood Street.

The offences occurred in east London between January 17 and February 22.

The Met said the five victims continue to receive support and officers released an e-fit image of the suspect after making extensive enquiries.

Detective Constable Lucie Johnson-Jones, from the local policing team, said: "We believe the suspect is in his late teens or early 20s and we are working to urgently identify him. Anyone who can help us do that should contact us immediately.

"These incidents are concerning and I recognise people in the area will be worried. We have stepped up patrols and are working with local schools to provide as much reassurance as we can."

Anyone with information that could help the investigation is asked to call 101 quoting the reference 4902399/24.

To remain anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111