A policeman has been arrested in connection with the disappearance of Sarah Everard.
Ms Everard, 33, a marketing executive, went missing on March 3rd while walking home from a friend’s house.
She left at 21.00 from Clapham, South London, to make the 50 minutes’ walk to her home in Brixton.
The Metropolitan Police have arrested a man at an address in Kent.
He is a serving officer but was not on duty at the time Ms Everard was last seen.
A woman was also arrested at the Kent address on suspicion of assisting an offender.
Both people are being held in custody.
Detective Chief Inspector Katherine Goodwin said:
“This is a significant development in our inquiry.
“This is a fast-moving investigation, and we are doing everything we can to find Sarah.
“We have seen an overwhelming response from the public and I repeat my request for anyone with information that may be relevant to come forward, no matter how insignificant it may seem.”
Assistant Commissioner Nick Ephgrave said:
“The arrest this evening is a serious and significant development.
“We will continue to work with all speed on this investigation but the fact that the arrested man is a serving Metropolitan Police officer is both shocking and deeply disturbing.
“I understand there will be significant public concern, but it is essential that the investigative team are given the time and space to continue their work.”
Ms Everard’s family has been informed of the latest developments.
She hasn’t been seen or heard from since leaving a friend’s flat in Leathwaite Road, Clapham.
Her family have said it is “totally out of character” for her to disappear.”
The police asked people to check CCTV or dashcams to help pinpoint Ms Everard’s movements.
Footage from a doorbell camera shows her walking along the A205 Poynders Road towards Tulse Hill at around 21.30 on the night she vanished.
A cordon was put up near the block of flats where the doorbell was positioned.
Forensic teams and sniffer dogs have been brought in.
Officers were seen lifting roadside drain covers.
Anyone who has seen Sarah or who has information that may assist the investigation should call the Incident Room on 0208 785 8244.
