Detectives have released the image of a man they urgently want to speak to in connection with an unprovoked stabbing in Croydon.

Police were called to at approximately 15:50hrs on Wednesday, 25 July to Selsdon Road.

The victim, a 26-year-old man, told officers that he was sitting outside a property on Selsdon Road when a man walked past in the direction of Brighton Road.

The man suddenly stopped in front of the victim, pulled out a knife from his backpack and lunged at him.

The victim attempted to move away but was stabbed in the chest, close to his right shoulder.

The man then put the knife back in his bag and casually walked off.

Officers took the victim to a south London hospital for treatment.

Detective Inspector David Willis, from Croydon CID, said: “We desperately want to locate this man as he poses a real risk to the public, and maybe, even himself.

“This appears to be a completely unprovoked attack that could very easily have turned into a far more serious incident. It is by sheer luck that the victim did not suffer any life-changing injuries.

“If you know who this man is, please call Croydon CID on 07769 922321 or via 101 as a matter of urgency. We urge you not to approach him.”