Man Charged with Murder in Croydon Disappearance Case
A 29-year-old man has been charged with murder in connection with the disappearance of Justin Henry. Louis Benjamin, from Waddon New Road, Croydon, was charged on Wednesday, October 25. The family of the 34-year-old victim have been informed of the development.
Suspect Appears in Court
Benjamin appeared in custody at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, October 26. He is due back at the Central Criminal Court on Monday, October 30. He was arrested days earlier on Tuesday, October 24, at a Croydon address.
Police Appeal for Public Help
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Webb, leading the investigation, said:
“As a result of our inquiries, a man has been charged with Justin Henry’s murder. We have spoken to Mr. Henry’s family, and we fully understand the deep distress this development will cause. I have assured his family that the search to find Mr. Henry continues, and I know they will be hoping that all may yet be well.”
Inspector Webb added the investigation is far from over. He urged anyone with information to come forward, no matter how small. “Mr. Henry’s family are enduring a dreadful ordeal, and they are desperate for news and are also seeking your help,” he said.
What Happened to Justin Henry?
- Justin Henry, 34, was reported missing on Monday, October 16.
- Last seen on Sunday night, October 15, at his partner’s home in Brixton.
- CCTV shows him buying food at a Croydon McDonald’s drive-thru at 9:50pm.
- He then drove his silver Mercedes E-Class, parked on Waddon New Road for around two and a half hours.
- The car was found in Kingswood Drive, SE19, early on October 16.
- Driver spotted on CCTV at Kingswood Drive is unclear, but family confirm it was not Justin behind the wheel.
Ongoing Investigation and Suspect Arrest
A 27-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of kidnapping on October 18 but has since been released on bail. Police have carried out forensic searches at a Croydon property and on Justin’s car. A thorough review of CCTV and phone data is ongoing.
Police Urge Anyone with Information to Speak Up
If you have any information about Justin Henry’s disappearance or movements, contact police on 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting Operation Ashgulf or CAD 5224/21Oct. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppers-UK.
