Man, 54, is charged with murdering woman, 24, whose body has not been found

A 54-year-old man has been charged with the murder of a missing woman from south-east London.

Maureen Gitau, 24, was reported missing by her family on Saturday December 10, having last been seen five days earlier on Monday December 5 as she left her home in Evelyn Street in Deptford, Lewisham.

Her body has not been found. 

Metropolitan Police said 54-year-old Mark Moodie of Nightingale Place has been charged with her murder.

He will appear in custody at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Man, 54, charged with murder of missing Lewisham woman (Family handout/PA)

She was last seen leaving her home on Evelyn Street, SE8 on December 5. Police have charged a 54-year-old man on suspicion of her murder. Police are yet to recover Ms Gitau’s body

Police said Ms Gitau’s family have been informed and continue to be supported by specialist officers.

Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn of the Met’s Specialist Crime Command is leading the investigation. 

She previously said: ‘Maureen’s family have been informed and they will be supported by specialist officers.

‘This news has come as a terrible shock. My thoughts, and those of my team, are with them at this very difficult time.

‘We are asking anyone who knew Maureen and who saw her on Monday, December 5, in the Deptford area, or anyone who believes they have information that could assist our investigation, to call 101, giving the reference 3230985/22.’

She added: ‘Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.’