This mystery man, believed to be a Zimbabwean national, is being sought by police in connection with the trafficking of an African woman for prostitution.

Police think the man, believed to be known as Rola Benwar, has been using threats and compulsion to make a woman from Cameroon engage in prostitution in the Brighton area.

Sussex Police officers investigating the case believe Benwar may still be in Brighton and Hove and have released this efit as they continue to look for him.

The search for Benwar comes after a routine vehicle check by police officers in Old Steine, Brighton, found a 31-year old woman who was a passenger in a pick-up truck being driven by a man in February this year.

It became evident to officers she had been engaging in prostitution.

They discovered a man known as Benwar was making the arrangements – although he was not in the truck at the time.

A man with the lady in the truck when it was checked by police was initially arrested on suspicion of human trafficking, but was later released and no further action is being taken against him.

The woman has received welfare support and advice and is not the subject of any police investigation.

Benwar was black, in his mid-forties, about 5ft 6in or slightly taller, with black eyes and a shaven thin face.

Detective Constable Paul Clements said: “We believe this man may have been using threats and compulsion to make this woman engage in prostitution locally.

“So far we have unable to positively identify him and we hope the efit, together with the information we are releasing, will cause someone to recognise him.

“He may still be in the Brighton and Hove area, but may equally be further afield.”

Anyone would information should call 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting serial 1303 of 12/2 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.