E-fit released of suspect in Michelle Samaraweera Walthamstow murder inquiry

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POLICE investigating the murder of Michelle Samaraweera in Walthamstow have released an e-fit of the man thought to be responsible for the brutal attack.

The E-fit of the suspect, who is described as being of Asian appearance or with dark skin, and is aged between 30 and 45 years, was shown on BBC One's Crimewatch.

Michelle, 35, was found strangled and raped in a park along Queens Road on 30 May 2009, five hours after she was last been seen alive in a nearby Somerfield supermarket.

Detectives are linking the murder to two further sexual assaults in Waltham Forest.

The first took place on on 24 March 2009 at 1am, when a 59-year-old woman was attacked inside her home on Queens Road.

The second attack happened on 22 April 2009 at 1am in the South Grove area. The 46-year-old victim had been walking along Lea Bridge Road with the suspect attempting to talk to her when she was forced into a nearby alleyway. She was raped before the suspect fled, warning her not to leave the scene.

"Someone has a brother or a son who may have acted suspiciously or been in the Queens Road area at the times of these attacks. It is vital they think of the community and come forward. This man must not be allowed to strike again"

Detective Inspector Vic Rae said: "The E-fit and tonight's appeal on Crimewatch is designed to urge anyone with any concerns or suspicions to come forward.

“Someone has a brother or a son who may have acted suspiciously or been in the Queens Road area at the times of these attacks. It is vital they think of the community and come forward. This man must not be allowed to strike again."

Det Supt Rae added: "Michelle was wearing a very distinctive black jacket with white parallel lines down the sleeves.

"We need to hear from anyone who saw Michelle or who has any information which could help."

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

Four men aged between 29 and 35 were arrested in connection with the inquiry. All four were bailed pending further inquiries and subsequently released without further action.

Anyone with information that may assist the inquiry should call the incident room on 020 8345 3715; if you wish to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.