Forensic officers spent the morning meticulously examining drains at a property in Axminster Crescent, Welling, as part of an ongoing murder investigation linked to the disappearance of 54-year-old Nazire Koreli.
The activity follows a dramatic police raid late on Sunday night, during which a 50-year-old man — believed to be Koreli’s partner — was arrested on suspicion of murder.
He remains in police custody while detectives continue their enquiries. Teams of specialists have been in the street since early Monday.
Residents Describe Dramatic Police Operation
Residents of the quiet suburban street have described the moment armed officers stormed the house shortly after 11pm, breaking down the front door and surrounding the property in a swift and coordinated operation.
“We heard this huge bang when the door went in,” said one neighbour. “Then we saw the flashing lights and dozens of police officers arriving. It was quite a shock — this is usually such a peaceful area.”
Shortly after the arrest, a blue forensic tent and a portable toilet were erected outside the semi-detached house, and a doorbell camera was removed by officers as potential evidence. Forensic specialists in white suits have since conducted a fingertip search of the premises, with teams now focusing their attention on the drains and external areas of the property.
Community in Shock
The search has left neighbours reeling, many struggling to process the gravity of the situation. One resident said they had seen building materials and soil movement outside the property in recent weeks, which now appear to form part of the police investigation.
“This is a lovely road. We all know each other. We used to see the woman out walking her dog almost every day — she was a lovely lady, always polite and friendly.”
Others expressed concerns about the scale of the police activity and the implication of what might be found during the ongoing forensic examinations in the coming days.
Investigation into Missing Woman Nazire Koreli
The latest developments come after police issued an urgent appeal for information regarding Nazire Koreli, who was reported missing on February 28, although investigators believe she has not been seen since September 2024.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed yesterday that the missing persons inquiry is now being treated as a suspected murder, prompting a major forensic and investigative operation in Welling and the wider Bexley area.
Police Appeal Continues
Detectives are still appealing for members of the public to come forward with any sightings of Nazire Koreli between September 2024 and February 2025, as well as information about her movements, contacts, or behaviour during that period.
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, leading the investigation, said:
“We are continuing our detailed forensic work and remain open-minded about the circumstances. Our focus now is on building a timeline and understanding exactly what happened to Nazire. We are urging anyone who may have seen her or had contact with her to speak to us immediately.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting CAD 8315/5MAR, or contact @MetCC on X (formerly Twitter). Anonymous tips can also be submitted via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
