73-year-old woman found dead in Bethnal Green flat as man faces murder charge

A murder investigation has been launched in east London after the body of a 73-year-old woman was discovered inside a Bethnal Green property. Police have confirmed that a man has been charged in connection with her death.

Emergency services were called to Russia Lane in Bethnal Green shortly after 21:00 BST on Thursday. When officers entered the address, they found the woman, later named as Sufia Khatun, with a severe head injury. Despite the rapid response of paramedics, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Mizanur Rahman, 45, has now been charged with murder. He is due to appear before Thames Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, 16 August.

The grim discovery shocked the community in Bethnal Green, where neighbours described the area as normally quiet. The property, situated among several blocks of flats beside a car park, has been cordoned off by police as investigations continue. Forensic teams were seen entering and exiting the building throughout Friday.

Detectives said the victim’s next-of-kin had been informed and are being supported by specialist officers. A post-mortem examination will take place in due course to confirm the exact cause of death.

The killing has sent shockwaves through the local community, which has a large number of elderly residents. Many expressed fear and disbelief that such a violent incident could occur in their neighbourhood.

Authorities have not released further details about the relationship between Rahman and Khatun, nor the events leading up to the woman’s death. The investigation remains ongoing, with officers urging anyone with information to come forward.

This case marks another stark reminder of the rising concern about violent crime in London. Although statistics show overall crime levels have fluctuated in recent years, high-profile cases involving elderly victims often draw intense public attention and heighten fears within local communities.

Police have emphasised that their priority is to secure justice for the victim and provide support to her grieving family. Officers will continue to maintain a presence in the area in the coming days to reassure residents and to gather further information relevant to the investigation.

The appearance of Rahman before magistrates on Saturday will be the first formal step in court proceedings. If the charge is upheld, the case is expected to be transferred to the Crown Court, where murder trials are typically heard.

As the investigation continues, many questions remain unanswered. For now, Bethnal Green has been left reeling from the discovery of Sufia Khatun’s tragic death, with neighbours struggling to comprehend the violence that unfolded behind closed doors.