A man is being hunted by detectives over a "vicious" hammer attack and making threats to kill.

Satheesan Appu, 42, left his victim with a facial injury, the Metropolitan Police said.

The force released an image and description of Appu, but warned the public not to approach him if he is spotted and instead dial 999 immediately.

Pc Dave Whaley said: "My team and I are committed to finding Appu and bringing him into custody.

"The victim in this case remains very worried that Appu remains at large in London and we need the public's help in order to locate and arrest him."

Appu is described as Asian and 5ft 9in with black hair.

He had a moustache, although investigators think he may have tried to change his appearance by shaving off his facial hair.

Police said Appu is known to frequent East Ham and Ilford in east London, but could be in the Newham or Redbridge areas of the capital.

He also has no fixed address and could be sleeping rough.

Anyone with information that might help police trace him is urged to contact police on Twitter by tweeting @MetCC or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.