Croydon sex attacks: Manhunt launched after six women assaulted in less than two months

Police step up patrols following spate of incidents - all carried out in broad daylight

South Norwood Country Park, Croydon (Google)

A manhunt has been launched after six separate attacks – including four sex assaults – were reported at a south London park in less than two months. All took place in broad daylight.

A single man is believed to be behind all the alleged offences, which were carried out at South Norwood Country Park in Croydon.

Every one of the attacks occurred in broad daylight and all were targeted against women aged from their early 30s to mid 60s, London's Metropolitan Police said.

Five of the victims were walking dogs at the time. Three had their mobile phones stolen.

"We are working hard to identify the suspect in this case and are appealing for anyone who might have seen or heard anything to speak to us, however insignificant they think the information may be," Detective Sergeant Matt Loftus said.

"We would advise park users to be vigilant and will be providing additional patrols in the area."

He added the attacks had taken place between Friday 3 May and Friday 21 June. The earliest was at 10.50am and the latest at 4.30pm.

The four sexual assaults were on 3 and 14 May and on 20 June, with mobile phones being stolen during the last two attacks.

A mobile phone was also stolen at 3pm on 21 June while the attempted theft of a phone took place at 10.50am on 15 May.

None of the victims suffered physical injuries.

The suspect is described as a black male, aged between 16 and 25, tall, thin and with dark hair.

Anyone with information is asked to call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.