The family of 27 year old Zahwa Salah Muktar have described their heartbreak and loss upon hearing of her murder.
Police were called to reports of an assault on Chadwell Heath Lane, Romford, on Saturday at 5:34am and found Zahwa with serious injuries.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Zahwa’s family said: “Zahwa was a kind and loving person with high aspirations in life and her presence brought warmth to those around her. She was dearly loved by her family and friends.
“Zahwa’s tragic loss has left us heartbroken, and she will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her. Her memory will live on in our hearts forever.”
Four people have been arrested in connection with Zahwa’s suspected murder.
A 35-year-old man was arrested on Sunday on suspicion of assisting an offender. This is in addition to a 35-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder, alongside a 21-year-old and 22-year-old who were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.
Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on the latest news and updates from around the Muslim world!
Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward and her family continue to be supported by specialist officers.
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, 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.
