*The CCTV images referred to in this story were removed after a man was charged on November 8 with the murder of Mariana Popa* These CCTV images show a man police want to trace in connection with the murder of Mariana Popa in Ilford.
The 24-year-old Romanian was stabbed in the chest in Ilford Lane near the junction with Loxford Lane at around midnight on October 29.
She stumbled wounded into takeaway Pizza and Chicken 4 U and was given first aid by paramedics before being taken to the Royal London Hospital, where she died during surgery at about 2am.
The images released today were taken in the area around the time of the murder and show a man who officers believe may hold crucial information.
Det Ch Insp Sheila Stewart, of the homicide and major crime command, said: “It is vital we track down this man who was in the precise area at the time Mariana was attacked and killed.
“I would urge anyone with information about this man, or any other aspect of the investigation, to get in touch with us as soon as possible. All calls will be treated with the utmost confidence.”
A 48-year-old man arrested in connection with the murder was released with no further action last week. There have been no further arrests.
Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room on 020 8345 3985 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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