The body of Yajaira Castro Mendez, a woman from Ilford who was reported missing last month, has tragically been discovered in Hampshire. The discovery was made on Saturday, June 7, following an intensive search operation.
Yajaira, 33, was last seen in Camden on Thursday, May 29, sparking a wide-reaching investigation by Metropolitan Police officers.
A 51-year-old man, Juan Francisco Toledo, of Lambeth, has now been charged with murder in connection with the Ilford woman murder case. He appeared at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court on Friday, June 6 and has been remanded in custody. Toledo is due to appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, June 10.
Officers located Yajaira’s body in the Bolderwood area of Hampshire, a region known for its dense woodland.
Following the search, formal identification has been completed. The victim’s family is now being supported by specially trained officers.
Acting Detective Chief Inspector Sean Beasley, leading the investigation, expressed his condolences: “This is a very sad development in the investigation, and our thoughts are very much with Yajaira’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. Officers have been working around the clock and continue to investigate the circumstances.
There are still crime scenes in place, and we’re working closely with Hampshire Police. We thank the community for their patience as we carry out our investigation, and we continue to appeal to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to please come forward.”
Multiple crime scenes remain secured in relation to the Ilford woman murder case, as forensic teams continue their work. The Metropolitan Police are collaborating with Hampshire Police in order to piece together the events that led to the tragedy.
Police are urging the public to come forward with any details that might aid their inquiry.
- Call 101 or contact @MetCC on X (formerly Twitter), quoting CAD 3020/06JUN2
- To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppers-uk.org
The Ilford woman murder case continues to unfold, with investigators determined to bring justice for Yajaira and her grieving family. Updates will follow as the case progresses through the courts.
