POLICE hunting a serial rapist who killed widower Michelle Samaraweera are examining possible links with two other more attacks in the area.

Detectives now want to speak to witnesses to two incidents in the South Grove area of Walthamstow in March.

A man armed with a knife grabbed a 16-year-old girl in South Grove, opposite the Alpha Business Centre, at 10pm on Thursday, March 19.

Three men in a passing silver car witnessed the attack and rushed to the girl’s aid and she escaped.

A 46-year-old woman was sexually assaulted as she walked close to St Saviour’s Church, in Markhouse Road, at 11.30am on March 26.

Three men in a white van witnessed the assault and stopped to help, causing the attacker to run off.

The suspect in both attacks is described as similar to the serial rapist. He is of Asian appearance with a light skin tone.

Officers are keen to trace witnesses to the attacks but also the men who assisted on each occasion.

Detective Superintendent Vic Rae said: "Whilst these two attacks cannot be officially linked to the murder of Michelle Samaraweera we would like to speak to anyone who may have information that could help us.

"The six men who acted so courageously and intervened are yet to come forward and they may have information which could greatly assist.”

Mrs Samaraweera was raped and strangled in a playground of Markhouse Road on June 30.

DNA linked the killer with two other rapes in the area earlier this year.

Police are collecting DNA samples from men living in the area in the biggest operation of its kind since the murder of Sally-Anne Bowman in south London.

Anyone with information should call the incident room on 8345 3715; if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

On June 29 a man, aged 36, was arrested in connection with the investigation.

He has been bailed to return pending further inquiries but a police spokeswoman said that he is no longer being connected to Ms Samaraweera's murder.