Man attacked women with hypodermic needle
His attacks were so subtle, women didn't even notice they had happened. But the victims of a silent attacker have been left terrified that they may have contracted deadly viruses after being stabbed by a hypodermic needle.
And today police released this image of a man they want to speak to in connection with the attacks in Birmingham in a bid to get the needle attacker off the streets.
At least three women have been targeted in Birmingham city centre this year. Police have increased patrols in a bid to find the person responsible.
The most recent assault happened at around 3am on Sunday, November 3, when a 30-year-old woman felt a sharp pain in her thigh, which was later confirmed as a puncture wound.
It was reported to police several days later, who believe the offence may be linked to two similar attacks earlier in the year on a 20-year-old woman on Sunday, June 23 and a 28-year-old woman on Sunday, October 6.
Det Insp Julie Woods, from Force CID, said: "We have received five reports in total over the last year-and-a-half and although the women have not been left with any obvious physical injuries they have had to endure an agonising wait to check that they have not suffered any long-lasting health effects.
"While we have been unable to confirm exactly how the injuries were caused, it is believed that a hypodermic needle may have been used on each occasion, with young women being specifically targeted.
"Due to the nature of the offences, victims have not realised they have been injured until hours or days later, which has resulted in limited lines of inquiry. But we now have a particularly clear image of a man we want to identify in connection with the attacks and I would appeal for him, or anyone who knows who he may be, to come forward."
Supt Danny Long from Birmingham Police said officers were working 'extremely hard' to find the person responsible.
He said: "We have increased the number of officers on patrol in Broad Street and around the city centre, particularly since the attack earlier this month, and are working closely with street wardens, street pastors, licensees, door staff and clubbers themselves to keep people safe."
Anyone who recognises the man should contact detectives on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
