Police name man they wish to speak with after student, 19, dies at uni halls

Early indications so far suggest that the victim had been in a relationship with Maher Maaroufe, 22, and that they had been together that evening, police said

Police say “call 999 immediately if you see Maher Maaroufe, 22”

Image: PA)

Detectives have named a man they are trying to track down after a woman was allegedly murdered in university halls in Clerkenwell.

Early indications so far suggest that the victim had been in a relationship with Maher Maaroufe, 22, and that they had been together that evening, police said.

Maaroufe is known to travel and has links across London. He is also known to travel to Cambridgeshire.

Anyone who sees Maaroufe should not approach him but call 999 immediately, police said.

Officers were called to the scene at Arbour House, student accommodation in central London, at around 5.10am on Saturday to reports of a woman suffering serious injuries.

Officers and London Ambulance Service attended and found the woman – believed aged 19 – suffering serious neck injuries.

Despite the best efforts of the emergency services she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police at the scene in London
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Image:

MyLondon/BPM Media)

It is believed the victim was a first year student at City, University of London. It has also been reported that the victim was an international student studying psychology.

Flatmates of the woman killed called police after hearing screams in the early hours of the morning, MyLondon reported.

Students have been seen leaving the halls of residence following the terrifying incident as police launched a murder investigation.

Some said they woke up to the sound of police “banging on doors” and now feel scared.

A murder investigation is underway
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Image:

MyLondon/BPM Media)

Detective Chief Inspector Linda Bradley, leading the investigation, said: “The woman’s family have been informed and will be supported by specialist officers in the days and months ahead. My thoughts and that of my team are with them at this terribly difficult time.

“We believe the victim is a student who was studying at City, University of London.

“Early indications so far suggest that the victim had been in a relationship with Maaroufe and that they had been together that evening.

The woman was found dead at university halls
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Image:

MyLondon/BPM Media)

“Urgent enquiries to locate Maaroufe are ongoing and I urge him to attend a police station immediately. Anyone who has information that can help police must do the right thing and please call us now.”

Chief Inspector Adam Instone, Central North Command Unit, said: “Arbour House is student accommodation, and I know there will be great sadness and deep concern among local people and the student community. I share their sadness and their concerns. And I can assure them that a thorough homicide investigation is under way, led by skilled and experienced detectives who will work tirelessly to identify and arrest whoever is responsible.

Police believe the victim is a student who was studying at City, University of London
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Image:

MyLondon/BPM Media)

“Tackling violent crime is the Met’s top priority. Police officers, including forensic specialists, remain at the scene. Local people will also see additional police in the area. If you have any concerns about safety in and around Clerkenwell, please speak with those officers.”

Anyone with information that could assist police is asked to call 101. You can also provide information anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers, online or by calling 0800 555 111.

https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/breaking-police-name-man-wish-26510637

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