A violent robber who strangles his victims to knock them unconscious is targeting women in Wandsworth.

The man has attacked five women and a teenage girl walking on their own in park areas, in the past two months, police said.

Detectives have launched an urgent appeal for information as they hunt the man.

The man normally grabs the women from behind and pulls them to the ground before stealing from them.

The suspect is described as black, aged between 18 and 25 years, between 5'10" to 6'4" tall, of medium build and wearing casual clothing.

In the latest attack, a 23-year-old woman was attacked in King George's Park, Wandsworth, on Wednesday.

She was punched and suffered cuts to her nose.

The 15-year-old teenager was attacked last Saturday, as she walked through a cemetery in Magdalen Road, Wandsworth.

She lost consciousness after being strangled and suffered a broken collar bone, injuries to her mouth and extensive bruising and swelling to her head.

All six victims were robbed of personal items, such as handbags, and required hospital treatment- which is continuing for some of the women.

DI Gavin Parish of Wandsworth CIB said it was unusual for such brazen attacks to be carried out in public places during daylight hours.

"Whilst the amount of violence used in these robberies is rare, it is very disturbing and certainly disproportionate to affect theft," he said.

Police are urging residents of Wandsworth to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

"We feel sure that someone knows this man or has their suspicions. I can assure them we will treat all calls in the strictest confidence," said DI Parish.

"We are particularly anxious to speak to a woman who was walking her dog in the park just before the attack at 14.00 on Wednesday 28 May in St Georges Park. We believe she may have seen the suspect."

Anyone who can help can call the Robbery Investigation Team at Wandsworth on 020 8247 8888; or, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

May 30, 2003 12:00