Sabita Thanwani killing: Manhunt continues over Clerkenwell death

A 19-year-old woman found dead in student accommodation in central London has been identified as police search for a man in connection with her death.

Student Sabita Thanwani was found with neck injuries in the halls of residence in Sebastian Street, Clerkenwell.

Police and medics went to Arbour House at about 05:10 GMT on Saturday but she died at the scene.

Detectives want to speak to Maher Maaroufe, 22, understood to have been in a relationship with Ms Thanwani.

The Metropolitan Police said early indications suggested Ms Thanwani, who attended City, University of London, was with Mr Maaroufe on Friday evening.

Detectives said Mr Maaroufe, who is not a student, had links across London - particularly Marble Arch, Edgware Road and Lewisham - and was also known to travel to Cambridgeshire.

Anyone who sees him should not approach him and call 999 immediately, police said.

Det Ch Insp Linda Bradley said they believed Tunisian national Mr Maaroufe, of no fixed address, had now shaved his head and had little facial hair.

Addressing Mr Maaroufe directly, she said: "I am also appealing, once again, for Maher Maaroufe to attend a police station immediately.

"Maher - I am making this appeal directly to you: if you see this, please go to the nearest police station. It is important that we speak with you."

A post-mortem examination has also been arranged.

Ch Insp Adam Instone, of the Met Police, said he understood the student community and local people would be concerned.

He said: "I share their sadness and their concerns. And I can assure them that a thorough homicide investigation is under way, led by skilled and experienced detectives who will work tirelessly to identify and arrest whoever is responsible."

Officers, including forensic specialists, remain at the scene and there will be additional police in the area, Ch Insp Instone said.