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Police hunting a serial rapist in Hamilton say the tally of victims may have risen to four.
Last week police said the offender had raped at least three women during weekends since April but said today they were now investigating another complaint which may be related.
They also said he probably tried to attack other women but had failed and that some attacks may not have been reported.
Those victims may hold crucial information and were encouraged to call the inquiry team, Hamilton police said today.
The latest reported incident happened before the other three, which police have confirmed were carried out by the same attacker.
Hamilton police said investigators were still sifting through details to get a better understanding of the rape and if it was linked to the serial rapist.
"It is too early at this stage to say whether or not the case is related."
They also confirmed several unresolved sex attacks were being studied again because they had similarities to the serial rapist's offending.
Police said they were encouraged by the public response and a vast amount of information needed to be studied.
They were confident the rapist would be caught but said people still needed to take precautions.
They should make plans to get home and stick with them; stay with friends and look after each other; and not accept rides or offers of help from strangers.
Police appealed to anyone with information to call the rape hotline, 0800 TO CATCH, (0800 862282)
- NZPA
