Manhunt Turns Grim in Clapham Chemical Attack Case
London police now believe Abdul Ezedi, wanted for a shocking chemical attack in Clapham, is “most likely dead.” The 35-year-old suspect vanished after the attack, and a thorough search along the River Thames has yielded grim suspicions.
Attack on Mother and Daughters Sparks Massive Search
The search launched on January 31 after a 31-year-old mother and her two young daughters — aged eight and three — were targeted with a corrosive substance on Lessar Avenue, Clapham. Ezedi was caught on CCTV near the Thames shortly after the attack, heading toward Victoria Embankment.
Met Police Commander Jon Savell said, “We have spent the last 24 hours meticulously following the CCTV, and it’s our main working hypothesis that he’s now gone into the water.” He added that the Thames is fast-flowing and wide this time of year, making recovery unlikely.
Suspect’s Last Known Movements by the Thames
Commander Savell described Ezedi’s strange behaviour near the 123 bridge, where he paced up and down and leaned over railings. Despite exhaustive searches and CCTV reviews, no confirmed sightings of Ezedi past Chelsea Bridge have emerged.
Body Found in Thames Not Linked to Suspect
Adding a twist to the probe, police recovered a body from the Thames at Victoria Parade, Greenwich, on February 8. The Metropolitan Police quickly confirmed the body was not Ezedi.
Investigators revealed the victim had arranged to meet Ezedi on the day of the attack, intensifying the mystery.
£20,000 Reward for Information
The hunt has drawn huge public interest, with a £20,000 reward offered for tips leading to Ezedi’s arrest. Although police suspect the suspect’s death, the investigation into the horrific Clapham chemical attack continues.
Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward immediately.
