Body found in Thames believed to be brutal Clapham attacker Abdul Ezedi
Thames body recovery
Detectives hunting Abdul Ezedi, wanted over a savage attack on a mother and her kids in Clapham, say the body pulled from the River Thames is likely his. The grim discovery happened around 4pm on Monday, 19 February, near Tower Pier, EC3, when a passing boat crew spotted the body in the water.
The Metropolitan Police’s Marine Policing Unit recovered the body and passed it to detectives investigating the case.
Strong evidence points to Ezedi
Commander Jon Savell said, “Based on the distinctive clothes he was wearing during the attack and property found on him, we strongly believe this is Ezedi. We have informed his family of the news.”
Visual ID and fingerprints are impossible due to the condition of the body after time in the water. Police will use DNA testing and dental records to confirm identity, a process that could take a while.
Victim showing signs of recovery
The 31-year-old woman attacked alongside her children is now stable in hospital and no longer sedated. Detectives hope to interview her as soon as she’s well enough.
Investigation continues with public support
Commander Savell praised the public’s help: “Hundreds of people called us with information during the hunt for Ezedi. The response was overwhelming, and every tip was followed up.”
Police believe Ezedi entered the Thames near Chelsea Bridge about four hours after the 31 January attack, a theory backed by CCTV and searches at low tide over several weekends. The body was found during routine river patrols by the Marine Policing Unit.
The investigation remains active, with detectives pursuing multiple leads. No further arrests have been made so far.
