A SERIAL rapist dubbed the Night Stalker has returned after a mystery three-year disappearance to strike THREE TIMES within the last month.

The black-clad intruder, who preys on the elderly, broke into a string of homes where he is thought to have sexually assaulted at least two people.

It brings his total of terrifying raids to a shocking 104, stretching back nearly 18 years. The Sun can also reveal that Operation Minstead detectives hunting the prowler are looking at three MORE incidents late last year where elderly women were confronted.

The latest attack came at 2am Wednesday in Lee, in his South East London stamping ground.

Police said the victim was not injured. A Met spokeswoman said: Officers from Operation Minstead have been informed.

The Stalker also carried out an early-hours burglary in Downham near Bromley on May 17 and five days earlier broke into an elderly womans Norwood home.



Chilling ... the stalker's latest crimes
Each time, telephone wires were cut and light bulbs removed so his features could not be seen through his customary balaclava.

Cops have not disclosed details to avoid unnecessarily scaring elderly people in the area.

But one source said: He is back and we would urge people to use sensible precautions and be vigilant about their security.

The suspect has always struck in clusters and what is happening is very worrying. But it also gives us chances to catch him.

The Stalker, thought to be a black man who watches victims before sneaking into their homes, is responsible for four rapes and more than 13 indecent assaults. He began his attacks in 1990, but stopped from October 1992 to 1996 and again between August 1999 and October 2002.

It is thought he may have been abroad. DNA tests showed his family come from the Caribbean.


Advertisement

Before last November he had not struck for three months.

Psychological profilers say the beast is a gerontophile who gets a kick from sex with OAPs.

Victims have ranged from 68 to 93 and ten were MEN, one of whom was sexually assaulted.

A £40,000 reward is on offer for the Night Stalkers capture.

A Met Police spokesman said: We confirm Operation Minstead officers are looking at break-ins in Downham, Norwood and Lee.



KNOW him? Call 0800 555 111