Man arrested on suspicion of murder of student found dead in central London flats
19 March 2022, 22:36 | Updated: 20 March 2022, 15:25
A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a student was found dead at her accommodation in central London.
Sabita Thanwani, 19, was found dead in her halls in Sebastian Street, Clerkenwell early on Saturday morning.
Her family have been informed and will receive support from specialist officers, Scotland Yard said. A post-mortem examination will be arranged in due course.
Police said this afternoon that Maher Maaroufe, 22, had been arrested.
Scotland Yard said he was arrested by officers in the Clerkenwell area.
He has been arrested on suspicion of murder and assault on police and remains in police custody, the force said.
Detective Chief Inspector Linda Bradley, who is leading the investigation, said: "Sabita's family have been updated with this development and continue to be supported by specially trained officers. Our deepest condolences are with them.
"I would ask everyone to respect their privacy at this indescribably devastating time for them as they come to terms with Sabita's murder."
The Metropolitan Police said they were called to reports of a woman injured at a residential property in Sebastian Street, Clerkenwell, at around 5.10am on Saturday.
Officers found her suffering from serious injuries and despite treatment from the emergency services she was pronounced dead at the scene.
One witness reported seeing a heavy police at the student accommodation building on Sebastian Street.
Chief Inspector Adam Instone, from the Met Police's 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.
“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.”
A Unite Students spokesperson said:“As this remains an on-going police incident, we are unable to comment on their investigation.
“Our priority at this time is the safety and wellbeing of students at Arbour House. We are working closely with the police and City, University of London.”
Information as to Maaroufe's whereabouts can be given to police officers via 101 or @MetCC and quote CAD 1252/19MAR22, or Op Worlington.
