Police are appealing for the public’s help in identifying a man after four unprovoked stabbings in west London.
Detectives are investigating a linked series of knife attacks in the Hayes area and have released an image of a man they need to trace.
Detective Chief Inspector Garth Hall, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are very concerned about these attacks, which have left four men with significant injuries.
“It is clear we need to catch the man responsible as soon as possible. I would urge anyone who recognises the man pictured to contact police immediately.
“I understand there will be concern in the community about these incidents and so we have increased resources and patrols in the Hayes area to provide reassurance.”
In each incident the suspect is described as a black man.
The first took place in Glencoe Road, Hayes, at about 09:30hrs on Wednesday, 3 July. A man around 35 years old and of muscular build, with straight dark hair and wearing dark clothes, attacked a 42-year-old man with a knife causing injury to the victim’s ear.
On Sunday, 7 July there were two incidents. The first was also in Glencoe Road, Hayes, at approximately 10:00hrs. A suspect seen armed with a knife, and wearing a hoodie and white gloves, attacked a 41-year-old man near a bus stop, causing multiple cuts around the face and neck.
The second incident on that day happened around 22.00hrs in Friar Road, Hayes. A man wearing a hoodie, white t-shirt and dark trousers slashed a 57-year-old man in the face with a knife.
On Monday, 8 July at about 03:10hrs, a 47-year-old man was attacked in Yeading Lane, Hayes, by a suspect wearing black clothing and a puffer jacket, causing injury to the victim’s eye.
Anyone with any information about these incidents or who recognises the man pictured is asked to call police on 101, quoting CAD 2585/03Jul.
Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.
