Najiib Raytaan charged with murder of woman stabbed to death on busy Willesden street in London's latest knife murder

DETECTIVES investigating the death of a woman in Willesden on Saturday have charged a man with murder.

Najiib Raytaan, 25 (08.04.00) of Harlesden Road, NW10, was charged on Monday, 2 February 2026 and appeared at Willesden Magistrates’ Court this morning.

He has been remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on Wednesday, 4 February.

Police were called at around 4pm on Saturday, 31 January, to reports of a stabbing on Pound Lane, Willesden.

Officers attended alongside colleagues from the London Ambulance Service and found a 50‑year‑old woman suffering from stab wounds.

Despite the efforts of emergency services, she was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. Her next of kin are being supported by specialist officers.

The victim and the suspect are known to each other and detectives are not looking for anyone else in relation to her death.

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, in charge of policing for Barnet, Brent and Harrow, said: “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts remain with the victim’s family, friends and all those who have been affected.

“We know this incident was witnessed by several members of the public, many of whom have spoken to police and been offered wider support.

“The victim and suspect were known to each other and we believe this was a targeted act of violence rather than a random attack.

Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Woodsford, who is leading the investigation from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said:

“Firstly, my thoughts are with the victim and her family at this incredibly difficult time. This incident happened in a busy part of Willesden, and I’d also like to thank the members of the public who provided first aid and called the emergency services.

“A suspect was arrested within several hours of the incident and he remains in custody. Our priority is to establish the circumstances surrounding what happened. However, based on our enquiries so far, there is nothing to suggest any wider risk to the public.”

Local officers will be on patrol in the area today to provide additional reassurance and to speak to any witnesses or anyone with information.

Detective Superintendent Tony Bellis, responsible for local policing in Brent, added: “An incident of this nature is tragic and deeply concerning, and our thoughts remain with the victim’s family, friends and all those affected. Based on what we know at this stage, this is believed to be an isolated incident, and there is no information to suggest any wider risk to the public.

“Residents will notice an increased police presence in the area in the coming days. Our officers are there to provide reassurance, engage with the community, and respond to any questions or concerns. I would urge anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that may assist the investigation to speak to officers in the area or contact us directly. Even small pieces of information can be vital.”

Anyone with information can contact the investigation team by calling 101 quoting CAD 4731/31Jan.

To remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Main image AI generated for illustrative purposes.