In a recent development following the unsettling discovery of a body in the River Thames, Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the deceased is not Abdul Ezedi, the suspect in the Clapham chemical attack. The body was found by emergency services in Victoria Parade, Greenwich, just after 7:20 pm on February 8, sparking widespread speculation given the ongoing manhunt for Ezedi.
Ezedi has been the focus of an intense police search since January 31, when he allegedly attacked a mother and her two daughters, aged eight and three, with a corrosive substance in Lessar Avenue, Clapham. Commander Jon Savell indicated on February 7 that Ezedi might have entered the River Thames, citing CCTV footage showing Ezedi walking near the river towards Victoria Embankment shortly after the attack. Despite these suspicions, there had been no previous reports or findings of a body in the water that could be linked to Ezedi.
As efforts to identify the recently discovered individual continue, Metropolitan Police have reassured the public that the search for Ezedi remains a top priority. The force is offering a £20,000 reward for information leading to Ezedi’s arrest, underscoring the seriousness with which they are approaching the case.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated, “Officers are working to confirm the male’s identity and inform next of kin. The death is being treated as unexpected pending further enquiries.” The identity of the male and the circumstances leading to his presence in the river are still under investigation.
The London Ambulance Service also provided details of their response to the incident, noting the deployment of various emergency resources, including their hazardous area response team (HART). Despite their efforts, the individual was pronounced dead at the scene.
This incident adds another layer of complexity to an already tense situation in London, as the community remains vigilant and law enforcement continues its pursuit of Ezedi. The Metropolitan Police have appealed to the public for any information that may assist in their ongoing investigations, both regarding the identity of the man found in the Thames and the whereabouts of Abdul Ezedi. The community is urged to come forward with any relevant information that may help bring clarity and resolution to these pressing matters.
