POLICE have released CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in connection with reports that a number of women have been sprayed with an unknown substance.

Officers have now received a total of nine reports in Newcastle.

The initial call was made to police on Tuesday, but one of the latest reports relates to an incident last week.

As part of their investigation, officers have now released images of a man who may be able to assist with their inquiries.

Newcastle city centre Chief Inspector Steve Wykes said: “We can confirm that there have been several reports of people in Newcastle being sprayed with an unknown substance by a man on a pedal cycle.

“None of those have been injured and early reports suggest the liquid in question appears to be liquid hand soap, rather than any kind of noxious substance.

“We will be carrying out tests to establish exactly what the liquid is but incidents of this nature do cause us concern and these reports are being taken very seriously by police.

“These incidents have taken place in different locations and, although some of the attacks took place near to the university, we do not think students have been targeted.

“A number of proactive enquiries to locate the offender are ongoing and anyone who sees anyone on a bicycle acting suspiciously in the city centre is encouraged to contact police on 101.”

The man, or anyone with information about these incidents, is encouraged to call 101 and quote log 640 12/02/19 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.