Elderly Croydon woman found dead in her own home may have been ‘burgled’

An elderly woman who was found dead in her home yesterday has been named after the Met confirmed there may have been a burglary at the property.

The woman has been named as 76-year-old Nelly Akomah and a murder investigation has been opened into over the incident

The investigation was launched after police were called by the London Ambulance Service at 10.40am on Wednesday to reports that Ms Akomah was found dead at a house in Ladbrook Road, near Thornton Heath.

Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn, said: “First and foremost my thoughts are with Nelly’s family and friends. Nelly was active in her church and her loss will be keenly felt by many people.

“At this stage, we are investigating the possibility that there was a burglary at Nelly’s address. I must stress that our investigation is in its very early stages and we are working to establish what exactly has happened.”

A post-mortem examination is due to be held today. Her family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

DCI Blackburn added: “I want to reiterate my appeal to the wider public. We need to know what led to Nelly’s sad death.

“If you haven’t already spoken to officers and you have information, footage or anything that could help our investigation please do so without delay.

“Were you in the area of Ladbrook Road, Croydon during the evening of the 20 June between 22:00hrs and midnight? Do you have any dash cam footage? Did you see anyone else in the area or any activity that you thought may be out of the ordinary? If you can help, we need to hear from you.”

Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain, responsible for policing in Croydon, said: “This is an incredibly heart-breaking incident and my thoughts are with Nelly’s family and friends. For the wider community, I know you will be concerned, feeling uneasy and have a lot of questions about what happened.

“People in the local area will see an increased police presence over the coming days and I would encourage anyone to come forward and speak to them to share information or to raise any concerns they may have.

“I am conscious that there has been speculation on social media and possibly shared in the local community.

“I appreciate that such speculation is an inevitable part of a police investigation of this nature. While I am in no doubt that many people are acting in good faith, I want to ask people to think of Nelly’s family who may read what is posted online.

“Some of the details posted will no doubt add to what is already an incredibly distressing time for them. I would also remind people that detectives are still working to gather information about what exactly has happened.”

A statement from The Met said: “There have been no arrests and enquiries continue.

“Anyone with information is asked to call police via 101 quoting reference CAD 2540/21Jun.

“You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Pictured top: 76-year-old Nelly Akomah who was found dead in her home (Picture: The Met)