Body Found in Hampshire Confirmed as Missing Ilford Woman
Police have identified the body discovered in Hampshire’s Bolderwood area on Saturday, 7 June, as Yajaira Castro Mendez, a 33-year-old woman reported missing from Ilford.
Yajaira was last spotted in Camden on Thursday, 29 May, sparking an urgent search and a murder investigation launched by the Metropolitan Police.
Murder Charge Made as Formal ID Confirmed
Police formally identified Yajaira’s body today and have informed her family, who are receiving support from specially trained officers.
Juan Francisco Toledo, 51, from Lambeth, was charged with her murder on Friday, 6 June. He appeared at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court and was remanded in custody ahead of a hearing at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, 10 June.
Toledo was arrested in Lambeth on 1 and 4 June, shortly after the investigation began.
Crime Scenes Remain Active as Police Press for Leads
Detectives are working closely with Hampshire Police and keeping several crime scenes under close watch.
Acting Detective Chief Inspector Sean Beasley said: “This is a very sad development in the investigation and our thoughts are very much with Yajaira’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
“We continue to appeal to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to please come forward.”
How You Can Help the Investigation
- Call 101 quoting CAD 3020/06JUN25
- Contact @MetCC on social media
- Give anonymous tips to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or via Crimestoppers-uk.org
