Police are hunting for a suspect who “targets lone women at night” after linking two rapes that took place fours years apart.

The two rapes – the first of which took place in Westminster in 2018, and the second in Shoreditch in 2022 – both during the early hours, were initially investigated by separate teams.

But police have now said the two incidents have been “forensically linked”, and warned that this makes it “highly likely” the suspect has carried out further attacks.

The Shoreditch attack took place in Curtain Road in the early hours of December 10, 2022.

CCTV footage of a man officers want to speak to in connection with their investigation has now been released.

An e-fit of the suspect in an attack that took place in the early hours of May 5, 2018, near to The Strand, has now been re-released by police.

DI Chris Heathcote, responsible for investigating rape and serious offences in east London, said: “The suspect involved in both incidents appears to target lone women in the night time economy.

“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.

Anyone who believes they are a victim, or anyone who recognises the man, has now been urged to come forward.

DI Heathcote added: “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 reference CAD 6163/26MAR24.