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Police appeal: Why was Chadwell Heath murder victim Zahwa Salah Muktar in Hackney in run up to death?
- Aug 19, 2025
- 2 min read
Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward following the death of a 27-year-old woman in Chadwell Heath Lane, Romford.
On Saturday, 16 August at 5:34am police were called to reports of an assault in Chadwell Heath Lane.
A woman was found with serious injuries and despite the best efforts of paramedics was pronounced dead at the scene.
She has since been identified as 27-year-old Zahwa Salah Muktar.
Zahwa's family continue to be supported by specialist officers.
Investigators are continuing to urge any witnesses who may have information to contact police.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke who is leading this investigation said: "Our thoughts remain with Zahwa's family and friends at this undoubtedly difficult time for them all.
We are keen to understand the events prior to Zahwa’s death.
“We know that Zahwa was in the company of a group of people in the vicinity of Palatine Road, Hackney, N16 in the early hours of Saturday, 16 August.
"We would like to speak with anyone who was with Zahwa and who may have any information that may help police understand her movements on that day."
Superintendent Clare McCarthy from the policing team in the local area said: “This was a tragic incident, and our thoughts are very much with Zahwa’s family and loved ones.
”We understand how important it is to address any concerns within the community and we are working closely with our partners, including local authorities, faith leaders, and community representatives, to provide support and reassurance.
“The community has been deeply affected by Zahwa’s death, and we are committed to working together with partners to ensure people feel safe, heard, and supported.
“I would continue to urge anyone who has information, no matter how small it may seem, to come forward and speak to us. Your information could be crucial in helping officers understand exactly what happened and in securing justice for Zahwa and her family.”
Members of the public can submit any information via the major incident portal here.
Alternatively, anyone with information is asked to contact police by calling 101 or online, quoting CAD 1625/16AUG Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or by submitting an online form.
Her family said: "Zahwa was a kind and loving person with high aspirations in life and her presence brought warmth to those around her. Her memory will live on in our hearts forever."
The Met Police said it had arrested four people, who remain in custody.
A man, 35, was arrested on Sunday evening on suspicion of assisting an offender, the force added.
It followed the arrest of a 35-year-old man on suspicion of murder, and two men, aged 21 and 22, who were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.
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