Missing Nigerian student found dead in UK forest

The UK Metropolitan Police have confirmed a body found in a pond in Essex as London student Richard Okorogheye.

The 19-year-old, who had sickle cell disease, had not been seen by his family since March 22 when he left their home in Ladbroke Grove.

His body was found in a pond in Epping Forest on Monday evening.

Police said Mr Okorogheye’s family had been informed and were being supported by specially trained officers.

CCTV images show the Oxford Brookes student on March 23 walking alone on Smarts Lane, Loughton, towards Epping Forest.

Police said they are treating the case as unexplained, adding they do not believe anyone else was involved.

A post-mortem found no evidence of physical trauma or assault.

The cause of death is pending whilst further investigations are carried out.

A police boss Danny Gosling said: “My deepest sympathies go out to Richard’s family at this incredibly difficult time.

“This was not the outcome that any of us had hoped for.

“I would like to extend my thanks to the many officers, staff and members of the public who have each played a part in the extensive effort to locate Richard.”

Okorogheye did not take his medication or any money when he left the house on March 22.

His mother Evidence Joel previously said her son had been “struggling to cope” with his business and IT degree.