British National of Indian Origin Murdered in Student Flat in London

A young woman of Indian origin Sabita Thanwani, 19, has been murdered at student accommodation in Clerkenwell, Central London.

Sabita Thanwani was studying at City, University of London. 

Her body was discovered with serious injuries in the neck at Arbour House in Sebastian Street, Clerkenwell on Saturday.  

The murder has left students in Arbour House in a state of shock. 

Arbour House is run by Unite Students which provides purpose-built accommodation for students across the UK. 

The victim was apparently in a relationship with Maher Maaroufe, 22, and was seen with him the night she was assaulted. 

Maher who is a Tunisian national has been arrested on suspicion of murder and assault on police on Sunday, Scotland Yard said. He was arrested in the Clerkenwell area. 

Detective Chief Inspector Linda Bradley, who is leading the investigation, said: “I would like to thank everyone for publicising and sharing our appeal to trace Maaroufe. 

“Sabita’s family have been updated with this development and continue to be supported by specially trained officers. Our deepest condolences are with them.” 

“I would ask everyone to respect their privacy at this indescribably devastating time for them as they come to terms with Sabita’s murder.”

A post-mortem examination has been arranged.