A murder investigation has been launched after a man was reported for trying to dump a body in the Thames at Deptford.

Police were called to Deptford Wharf at around 3am this morning (Nov 21) when someone spied the man trying to dispose of the body.

Officers responding to the call then stopped a car in nearby Evelyn Street and the body of a man, aged in his 20s, was found inside.

Paramedics attended and the man, who had suffered head injuries, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the car, a man in his 50s, was arrested on suspicion of murder and taken into custody at a south London police station.

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At this early stage, officers believe the man was murdered at an address in Thornton Heath and then driven to Deptford. A woman was arrested in Thornton Heath this morning.

In Deptford Wharf today, part of the pathway and a car park beside the Thames were cordoned off and police stood on guard.

Pamela Cullen, 69, Deptford Wharf, said: "I heard a banging noise in the night, the area is usually very quiet and you can only hear foxes and gulls.

"I'm not really suprised about this, it's not the first time. There was a similar case several years back.

"I hope the person who died was not too young."

Neighbour Ngan Nguyen, 24, said:  "I woke up at 6am and I saw the police outside by the river. I didn't know what was going on. I am very shocked, it is usually a safe area and we have no trouble."

Any witnesses or anyone with any information can call the incident room at Sutton on 020 8721 4005 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Did you see what happened? call News Shopper on 01689 885714 or email mchandler@london.newsquest.co.uk