Detectives from the Mets Specialist Crime Command continue to appeal to find Owami Davies.
Detective Chief Inspector Nigel Penney, who is leading the investigation, said: “The search to find Owami Davies continues and we are conducting searches, appeals and extensive CCTV enquiries in order to trace and find her. I would remind people that even though detectives from Specialist Crime are investigating, this remains a missing person enquiry.
“We are obviously very concerned for the welfare of Owami and it is possible she is in the local area and in need of help. We have reports of someone of Owami’s description being seen in the Croydon area in the days after she was last seen on CCTV and we sincerely hope to find her safe and well.
“I would also appeal to anyone who may be helping Owami, or Owami if you see this message, please be assured you are not in any trouble at all. We are only concerned for your welfare and want to make sure you are okay. You can contact us, or a charity like Missing People on 116 000 and just speak to let us know that you are okay. Owami, your family love you and are desperate for news, they would be overjoyed to hear you are safe.
“I would urge people to look at the photos of Owami and contact us if they have seen her or remember seeing her in the area. We have already had outstanding support from the local community, partners and businesses and we appreciate everyone who has contacted us or helped publicise the search for Owami. I know Owami’s family are grateful for all the help the public have given, please continue to help by calling police if you have any information. Your call could be the vital information that helps us find Owami safe and well.”
The last CCTV of Owami was taken about 12:30hrs on Thursday, 7 July and shows Owami in a dark jacket, red t-shirt, light grey joggers, slider type shoes and carrying a white handbag over her shoulder.
She is walking north on London Road, Croydon away from West Croydon and towards Norbury.
South Area Commander Chief Superintendent Dave Stringer, said: “I can assure our community that all we can do to find Owami is being done. We are working closely with our colleagues in Specialist Crime, who are used to dealing with large, complex investigations and we are providing them all the assistance we can in this extensive inquiry. Everyone, I am sure, is hoping that Owami is safe and well and this nightmare for her friends and family will finally end.
“We understand the real anxiety that is currently felt in our community and we have additional officers patrolling to reassure you. Please do take the opportunity speak to these officers about your concerns, they are there to help you and answer any questions you may have. Lastly, I would like to express my thanks to everyone who has helped us, and is helping us, to find Owami. We truly appreciate the outstanding support we have received from both our community and our partners.”
Owami left her family home in Grays, Essex, on Monday, 4 July.
The Met’s Specialist Crime Command is leading the investigation to establish what has happened to Owami.
The MPS has also sought the support of the National Crime Agency to draw on their specialists capabilities – from within the Major Crime Investigative Support Command.
Five people have been arrested in relation to the enquiry; all have since been released on bail, whilst the investigation team follow up on further enquiries.
Anyone with information should call the incident room on 020 8721 4622 where detectives are waiting to speak to you. Information provided will be handled sensitively and anyone who comes forward to assist officers will be given every support.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers. They are separate from the police, they do not trace calls or monitor IP addresses. To contact them, either call 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org
