The body of a murdered 28-year-old primary school teacher, Sabina Nessa, wasn't found the day after she was attacked in a London park, the Met Police has said.

Police believe the young teacher from Kidbrooke was attacked at Cator Park in south east London at around 8.30pm on Friday 17 September, however the police weren't contacted until around 5.30pm the following day. The Met's Detective Superintendent Luke Marks said there was a "short delay" because her body was "not in the main walkway."

Detective Inspector Joe Garrity from the Met's Specialist Crime Command, who's leading the investigation into Nessa's death said: “Our initial enquiries suggest that this attack happened at around 20:30hrs on Friday, 17 September, a time when the park was likely being used by many people from dog walkers to joggers.

“Sabina was found near the OneSpace community centre which we know is a facility used by lots of people and we would ask anyone who was in or around the area and who may have any information to come forward."

Officers had arrested a man in his 40s on suspicion of murder but he has been released under further investigation.

A post-mortem examination carried out was inconclusive.

Anyone with information or any witnesses can call the police on 0208 721 4266 or 101, referencing 5747/18. To remain anonymous, those with information can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Lisa Williams, the head of Rushey Green primary school in Lewisham, where Nessa worked, said she was a brilliant teacher.

“We are devastated by Sabina’s tragic death. She was kind, caring and absolutely dedicated to her pupils. She had so much life ahead of her and so much more to give and her loss is desperately sad. As a school we are supporting each other through this very difficult time, and we will be providing specialist support to those who need it," she said.

The organisation Reclaim These Streets, which campaigns for the safety of women and girls, has asked mourners to join a vigil for Nessa this week in Kidbrooke.

On Twitter, the organisation said: "On Friday night, we will join Sabina Nessa’s community in solidarity against violence against women and to acknowledge her life. Join us in Peglar Square at 7pm. If you can't join in person, please light a candle at 7pm on your doorstep."

Headshot of Megan Sutton
Megan Sutton
Acting Senior Editor
Megan is Cosmopolitan UK's acting senior editor, covering topics like careers, books, health and relationships. She's particularly fond of dogs, great vegan food and karaoke.