The search for the suspect in the Clapham chemical attack, Abdul Ezedi, took a grim turn when a body was found in the River Thames in London. Marine police teams had been scouring the river for Ezedi, who was accused of throwing a strong alkali on his ex-partner and injuring her young daughters. The body was spotted by the crew of a passing boat at Tower Pier EC3 on Monday at 4pm. The Met’s Marine Policing Unit recovered the body, which is now being examined by detectives involved in the case.
Commander Jon Savell acknowledged that visual identification of the body was not possible due to the time spent in the strong currents of the Thames. The police will need to rely on DNA testing and dental records for formal identification, a process that could take some time. Based on the clothing and property found on the body, they strongly believe it to be Abdul Ezedi. His family has been informed of the discovery.
The Metropolitan Police revealed that it was likely Ezedi entered the river near Chelsea Bridge, as CCTV footage captured him leaning over railings shortly after the attack. Despite previous warnings about the challenges of locating a body in the fast currents of the river, the police remained hopeful that they would find Ezedi. A nationwide manhunt had been launched for him post the chemical attack that injured not only his ex-partner but also responding police officers and helpful neighbors.
Fortunately, the condition of the woman injured in the attack has improved, and she is now in stable condition in the hospital. The authorities have not been able to speak to her yet, but they are hopeful that she will be well enough soon. The attack was believed to be motivated by the breakdown of Ezedi’s relationship with her. Despite a successful asylum application, the suspect had a past conviction for a sexual offense and lived in Newcastle.
The mysterious disappearance and death of Abdul Ezedi have left many questions unanswered. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working diligently to confirm the identity of the body found in the River Thames. The recovery of the victim and the circumstances surrounding the attack shed light on the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of addressing underlying issues that can lead to such tragic events.
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