The officer leading the investigation into a rape in Lowestoft has expressed concern that the suspect could strike again.

A woman in her 30s was raped in a car on Kimberly Road at some time between 4.15am and 5.15am on Saturday, December 9.

At about 4am, the victim had accepted a lift from the stranger at the end of a night out because she believed that he was a genuine Good Samaritan.

The suspect is described as being Asian, aged between 30 and 40, short and of slight build. During the car journey he stated to the victim that he often offered people lifts to 'make friends'.

Yesterday, Suffolk Police released an E-fit image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the attack, and Detective Superintendent Eamonn Bridger has urged the public to stay alert.

'We've had some calls from members of the public and we strongly suspect that the man who picked up the victim on Saturday is the same person who picked up some other people around half an hour before. That does bring about some real concerns.

'Rapes by strangers are very rare offences in Lowestoft and that's reflected by the amount of policing effort we're putting into this with our dedicated team of detectives.

'An extensive team of visible police officers and detectives are on the case going from door-to-door, with efforts concentrated especially on Kimberly Road and Oulton Road.

'In the early hours of this Saturday, December 16, we're going to have extra reassurance patrols in Lowestoft; we can't rule the potential for this man to try and offer further lifts to people late at night.

'I would strongly urge people not to accept lifts from strangers and those on nights out should stick together and look after each other.'

Anyone who either has information about this attack, believes they recognise the person pictured in the E-fit, or who was in the area during the relevant times and witnessed anything suspicious, is asked to contact Suffolk Police on 101, quoting reference 78398/17.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.