Woman's body found in car boot in east London as two police forces launch murder investigation

By Henry Moore

A woman’s body has been found in the boot of a car in East London.

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Detectives from Northamptonshire Police said a murder inquiry has been launched following the discovery in Ilford, East London.

Superintendent Steve Freeman said the woman, who has not been named but is from Corby in Northamptonshire, may have been the victim of a "targeted incident".

Mr Freeman said: "Fast-track inquiries were made which sadly led to the discovery of a woman's body inside the boot of a vehicle in the Ilford area of London.

"We are treating the death as suspicious and a murder investigation has been launched."

Detectives from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit major crime team are working in the Metropolitan Police on the case.

Mr Freeman added: "The investigation is ongoing and there will be continued police activity over the weekend in various locations, including Corby and Ilford.

"Although we believe that this was a targeted incident and there is no wider risk to members of the public, extra patrols will be taking place in Corby in the coming days for reassurance purposes."

The police were reportedly contacted by a member of the public on Wednesday - they were said to be concerned for the woman's welfare.

Mr Freeman said in a statement: “On Wednesday, November 13, Northamptonshire Police were contacted by a member of the public regarding a concern for the welfare of a woman in Corby.

“Detectives from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit Major Crime Team and the Metropolitan Police have been working at pace to establish the circumstances that led to the woman’s death.

“Although we believe that this was a targeted incident and there is no wider risk to members of the public, extra patrols will be taking place in Corby in the coming days for reassurance purposes."

Access to the park, off Brisbane Road in Ilford, near where the woman's body was found has reportedly been closed off.

A forensic tent is thought to have been placed over the vehicle, according to reports from locals.

Anyone who may have information has been asked to call police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

This is a breaking story, more follows…