Women warned after body found

Police have warned women to be vigilant after confirming that a body found in east London was that of missing Finnish student Suvi Aronen.

It is believed the 23-year-old may have been killed by a man who attacked three other women in the previous hour. Miss Aronen was attacked as she walked near Wanstead shortly before 6pm on Thursday.

Her mother called her mobile phone at 5.45pm and heard her shout "Get off! Don't hurt me!" before the line went dead. A second call was made to the phone and a muffled male voice could be heard, as well as cries.The Metropolitan Police launched a search of the area and officers yesterday found a body hidden in undergrowth.

The force confirmed the body was that of Miss Aronen and launched a murder investigation.

It is not yet known how she died. A post mortem was due to take place later.

Police believe the killing could be linked to three other attacks on women in the hour before Miss Aronen was heard screaming.

Detective Chief Superintendent Jon Shatford, who is leading the investigation, urged women in the area to be vigilant.

He said: "At this time I am working on the assumption that the three attacks on women just prior to when Suvi was last known to be alive, are linked.

"I am concerned that on each occasion the attacker has demonstrated an increasing propensity towards violence. It is important for everyone in the area, particularly women, to be vigilant and conscious of their surroundings.

"I am also anxious to hear if any other women have been approached over the preceding days."

The three other attacks took place at 4.40pm, 5pm and 5.15pm, all in Wanstead.

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