Bank boss killer may have fled abroad, say police

Olivia Demetriades
BBC London
Metropolitan Police Ms Kilonzi is seen from the shoulders up against a white background. She has brown eyes and is smiling. Her hair is in a half up, half down do and has jewel drop earrings in. Metropolitan Police
Marianne Kilonzi was found dead in her Woolwich flat

Police officers hunting the killer of a senior banking executive who was found dead in her south-east London home are investigating whether the suspect may have fled abroad.

Marianne Kilonzi was found fatally beaten in her flat in Woolwich on Friday evening, the Met Police said.

A post-mortem examination gave the cause of death as blunt-force trauma and a head injury.

The 43-year-old, who was a vice president at the major financial institution Citibank, is believed to have known her attacker, the force said, adding that whether the suspect had fled abroad was one line of inquiry.

The police added that it would not release any details about the suspect.

'Tragic crime'

Officers had been called to Ms Kilonzi's flat following reports of concerns for her welfare.

On Tuesday, Det Ch Insp Suzanne Soren, who is leading the murder investigation, said: "We believe the suspect was known to Marianne and there is no wider risk to the public.

"This is a tragic crime and our thoughts at this incredibly difficult time are with Marianne's loved ones and colleagues."

In a statement, a Citibank spokesperson said: "We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our colleague.

"Our thoughts are with Marianne's family and friends during this difficult time."

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected]