POLICE investigating the murder of Michelle Samaraweera and two related sexual assaults are to carry out DNA testing on men in the Walthamstow area.

Officers will be making house-to-house enquiries and asking any men who match the suspect's description to voluntarily provide a DNA sample.

The suspect is described as being of Asian appearance, or with dark skin, aged between 30 and 40.

Detectives believe he has detailed knowledge of the Walthamstow area and is likely to live locally.

The DNA sweep is aimed at eliminating as many innocent men from the investigation as possible.

Ms Samaraweera's body was discovered on May 30 at about 5.50am in a small park and play area in Queens Road.

She was raped and strangled.

Her murder has been linked with two recent rapes in the borough.

Two women, aged 59 and 46, were attacked on March 24 and April 22 respectively.

The DNA test involves a swab inside the mouth with a small cotton bud.

Detective Superintendent Vic Rae, who is leading the investigation from the Met's Homicide and Serious Crime Command (HSCC), said: "Much consideration and planning has gone into this decision and we feel this is the quickest and most comprehensive way to eliminate men from our investigation.

"Michelle suffered a terrifying assault and the physical abuse against the other two women was significant.

"All three endured horrendous sexual abuse and it is therefore with the whole community in mind that we work to trace this man."

Since the murder, Waltham Forest police have increased high-visibility patrols and would like to hear from anyone who may have been approached by a man matching the suspect's description.

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.

Anyone with information should call the incident room on 8345 3715 or to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.