Fugitive Joseph McCann, who is being hunted in connection with the "horrific" rapes of three women, is believed to be connected to the abduction of two women in Congleton, Cheshire Police have said.
Two women were forced into a black Fiat Punto but freed later when the car crashed following a police pursuit. The driver fled.
Following the drama on Sunday night, police have released a picture of a man they say is connected with the incident.
Officers have appealed to the public to trace Joseph McCann, a 'dangerous individual' the public are urged not to approach.
McCann is being hunted by the Metropolitan police in connection with the "horrific" rapes of three women.
The drama happened at 6.45pm today when two women were forced into a black Fiat Punto in Congleton town centre.
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The Punto was spotted a short time later by officers, according to Cheshire Police.
Following a short pursuit, the vehicle came to a stop on Oblisque Way after colliding with another car.
The driver fled the scene on foot, leaving behind the two women in the car.
Officers say Joseph McCann, who is wanted by the Metropolitan Police, is 'connected to this incident'.
McCann, 34, is described as muscular build, 5ft 10ins tall, with blue eyes and a bald head or shaved blond hair.
He has a light-coloured short beard and a distinctive tattoo of the name ‘Bobbie’ on his stomach.
Superintendent Sarah Pengelly said: “McCann is a dangerous individual and I would advise anyone who sees him not approach him but instead call us immediately on 999.
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"Enquiries to locate him are ongoing and there is a large police presence in the Congleton area. This includes road checks in and out of the town.
"The two women abducted in Congleton were not injured. However, they have been left extremely shaken as a result of their ordeal and are currently being supported by specially trained officers."
Anyone with any information in relation to the whereabouts of McCann is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 999 quoting IML 393162.
