A MAN who raped and murdered a woman in a Walthamstow park may have recently attacked two other women in the borough, police have said.

The partially-clothed body of Michelle Samaraweera, 35, was found in Queens Road park, on May 30. She had been raped and strangled.

Now police have said her killer may also be responsible for the rape of a 59-year-old woman near Queens Road in March this year and the rape of a 46-year-old woman in Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, in April.

On March 24 this year a 59-year-old woman was attacked near her home, in Queens Road, at about 1am.

The suspect lay in wait for her on her doorstep, police said, and as she went to open her front door he forced himself inside and raped her in her bedroom.

On April 22, again at about 1am, a woman was walking along Lea Bridge Road, near Markhouse Road, when a suspect approached her and tried to engage her in conversation.

He then forced her down an alleyway before raping her.

The attack is believed to have happened in the area near St James St station.

Ms Samaraweeara was filmed on CCTV visiting the Somerfield service station, in Markhouse Road, shortly before she was killed.

Four men aged between 29 and 35 were arrested in relation to the death.

Two have been released on bail while no further action will be taken against the other two.

Police have stepped up patrols in the area of Queens Road since the incident.

Borough Commander Chief Superintendent Mark Benbow said: "We do urge women in the area to remain vigilant, particularly if walking alone at night.

"We are also keen to hear from anyone who may have information about the suspect or who may have been approached in similar circumstances."

The suspect is described as Asian, or with dark skin, and aged between 30 and 45 years.

Anyone with information that may assist the enquiry should call the incident room on 020 8345 3715, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.