Acid Attacker Ezedi Suspected Dead, Body Recovered from Thames: Police Update on Clapham Attack

London, UK – 20 February 2024: Detectives investigating the brutal attack in Clapham have recovered a body from the River Thames believed to be Abdul Ezedi, the suspect. The body was spotted by a passing boat crew near Tower Pier on Monday afternoon.

Possible Identification and Next Steps: While formal identification through fingerprint or visual means is not possible due to time and river conditions, authorities believe they have strong evidence it’s Ezedi based on clothing and belongings found on the body. The coroner will work with police to confirm identity through DNA testing and dental records.

Attack Victim Recovering: The 31-year-old woman injured in the attack is thankfully stable and no longer sedated, though still hospitalized. Police hope to speak to her soon to aid the investigation.

Appreciation for Public Support: Commander Jon Savell expressed gratitude to the public for their overwhelming support during the search for Ezedi. Every piece of information provided was thoroughly pursued.

Investigation Continues: While recovering Ezedi’s body is a significant development, the Clapham attack investigation remains ongoing.

Previous Developments: On February 9th, police shared their belief that Ezedi entered the Thames at Chelsea Bridge after the attack, based on extensive CCTV analysis. Marine unit searches over the following weekend and during routine patrols led to the body’s discovery.

What did he do

On January 31st, 2024, in Clapham, South London, a woman and her two daughters aged three and eight were allegedly attacked with a corrosive substance believed to be a strong alkali. The suspect was identified as Abdul Ezedi, who had a previous conviction for a sexual assault offence.

A large-scale manhunt was launched by the Metropolitan Police Service, with appeals to the public for information. CCTV footage and descriptions of Ezedi were widely circulated.

On February 9th, police believed Ezedi entered the River Thames at Chelsea Bridge based on CCTV analysis. Extensive searches were conducted, and on February 19th, a body was recovered from the Thames suspected to be Ezedi.

Formal identification is still pending further investigation. The woman injured in the attack remains hospitalized but is in stable condition.

This is an ongoing investigation, and it is important to respect the privacy of those involved.

Has confidence in the Met Police fallen

• MOPAC Public Attitudes Survey: In March 2022, public confidence in the Met Police reached a record low of 49%, highlighting a sustained decline since 2017.
• House of Commons Justice Committee Report: A 2022 report found public trust in the police, particularly among minority groups, was “at a crossroads.”