Arrests Made in Connection with Murder of Elderly Nigerian Woman in London

Two individuals have been arrested by detectives following the death of a 76-year-old Nigerian woman, Mrs. Nelly Akomah, in her residence in south London. 

The incident is believed to be a result of a burglary.

The lifeless body of Mrs. Akomah was discovered on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at her home on Ladbrook Road, Croydon, with fatal injuries. 

Neighbors contacted the police after the incident. 


Reports suggest that the pensioner's CCTV security systems were tampered with before the attack, prompting an investigation into the motive.

A 28-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman were apprehended at Stansted Airport in the early hours of Friday, June 23, and are currently in custody on suspicion of murder.

Mrs. Akomah held significant roles as the leader of the Nigerian Methodist Mission UK and Ireland, as well as being a member of Tooting Methodist Church. 

The investigation is being led by the Specialist Crime Command, and authorities are appealing to anyone who witnessed any suspicious activities in the vicinity of Ladbrook Road to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn expressed condolences to Mrs. Akomah's family and friends, highlighting her active involvement in the church and the impact her loss will have on many. 

She also emphasized that the arrests mark significant progress in the ongoing investigation. 

While the possibility of a burglary is being explored, the investigation is still in its early stages, and the exact circumstances are being determined.

Neighbors described Mrs. Akomah as a lovely, smart, and cheerful lady. 

One neighbor, aged 62, shared that she was found at the bottom of the stairs, suggesting that an intruder may have been interrupted during a burglary attempt. 

The neighbor expressed deep sadness over the incident, highlighting Mrs. Akomah's strength and vitality, debunking the possibility of a simple fall down the stairs.

Dame Susan Solanke, Lay president of Ms. Akomah's Nigeria Methodist Mission UK, expressed the mission's deep sorrow, calling her death a significant blow. 

She denounced the senseless attack and urged swift justice for the perpetrators.

Fellow member Ayodeji Okegbile requested prayers for the police investigation, paying tribute to Mrs. Akomah's role as a cherished leader and mother. 

The Nigeria Methodist Mission UK and Ireland mourned her loss, extending condolences to her family, church, and close friends.

Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain, responsible for policing in Croydon, expressed heartfelt sympathy to Mrs. Akomah's loved ones. 

He assured the community that the investigation team is diligently working to establish the facts and urged anyone with information or concerns to approach the increased police presence in the area. 

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