Police have confirmed that a body discovered in rural Hampshire is that of missing Ilford woman 33-year-old Yajaira Castro Mendez. Ms Castro Mendez was last seen in Camden on May 29, sparking an urgent police search and the launch of a murder investigation.
Her body was found on Saturday during searches in the Bolderwood area of the New Forest, more than 100 miles from her east London home. Formal identification has now taken place. Her family are being supported by specially trained officers.
Acting Detective Chief Inspector Sean Beasley said: “This is a very sad development and our thoughts are with Yajaira’s loved ones. Officers continue to work around the clock to establish what happened.”
A man has been charged in connection with her death.
Juan Francisco Toledo, 51, of Lambeth, appeared at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court on Thursday charged with murder. He is due to appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday.
Anyone with information is urged to call 101 quoting CAD 3020/06JUN2, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
