A body has been found in the search for the Clapham chemical attack suspect, Abdul Shokoor Ezedi.

Police said the crew of a passing boat reported they had seen a body in the water at Tower Pier EC3 at 4pm on Monday.

The body was recovered by the Met’s Marine Policing Unit and has been seen by detectives working on the investigation.

“Based on the distinctive clothing he was wearing at the time of the attack and property found on his body, we strongly believe we have recovered the body of Ezedi,” Commander Jon Savell said.

The Metropolitan Police said on 9 February that it was likely Ezedi had entered the River Thames in the area of Chelsea Bridge in London. CCTV showed him leaning over railings just hours after the attack.

Officers said he had probably died.

Police had previously warned his body might never be found, due to the fast winter currents in the river.

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A nationwide manhunt had been launched for Ezedi, after his suspected involvement in an attack on a 31-year-old mother and her two young children on Wednesday 31 January.

A corrosive alkaline substance was thrown and also injured police officers who responded to the attack, as well as neighbours on Lessar Avenue, near Clapham Common, who rushed to help the family.

Ezedi, 35, was previously in a relationship with the woman, police believe, but it broke down.

He lived in Newcastle after a successful asylum application to stay in the UK – despite being convicted of a sexual offence.

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