Police are searching for a man believed to be responsible for a series of knifepoint robberies of sex workers.

The investigation follows five reports of women working in the sex trade having their mobile phones and cash stolen – including one robbery in Newham.

Detectives have now identified a suspect who is known to frequent the Whitechapel area. He is described as an Asian man aged 25-30, with large ears and sunken eyes.

They are advising people working in the sex trade to be vigilant following the attacks, which occurred in Westminster, Kensington and Kennington as well as Newham.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: “Officers take any such reports extremely seriously and actively encourage all members of the community, particularly those who may be vulnerable to such incidents, to come forward and contact police.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting Operation Seil.