A man has been charged with the murder of a missing Kenyan woman from south-east London, police said.
Maureen Gitau, 24, was reported missing by her family on Saturday December 10, having last been seen five days earlier on Monday December 5 as she left her home in Evelyn Street in Deptford, Lewisham.
Metropolitan Police said 54-year-old Mark Moodie of Nightingale Place has been charged with her murder.
He will appear in custody at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
Police said Ms Gitau’s family have been informed and continue to be supported by specialist officers.
Public appeals were issued for help finding Maureen but she has not been seen or heard from since the day of her disappearance.
In the appeal published by the News on Christmas Eve, Maureen’s desperate mother Jane said: “It is so hard not to have Maureen at home with us, especially at Christmas. Maureen is much-loved and is such an important part of our lives. We are desperate to have her back home with us. If anyone knows where Maureen is, let us know. Maureen – please come home to us.”
As concerns grew for her wellbeing, detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command were brought in to assist and later take on the investigation.
Police are appealing to anyone who knew Maureen and who saw her on December 5th in the Deptford area, or anyone who believes they have information that could assist their investigation, to call 101, giving the reference 3230985/22. Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Maureen was last seen wearing black jeans, a black top and black jacket. She described to have short black hair with brown highlights at the top. She has links to the Lewisham, Charlton, Woolwich and Deptford areas.
