29-year-old man arrested after body is found in suitcase

'We are also interested in hearing from anyone concerned about young adult females who have gone missing,' say police

New Scotland Yard, the headquarters of the Metropolitan Police (Getty Images)

A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder by detectives investigating the death of a woman whose body was found in a suitcase.

The 29-year-old was detained on Tuesday and is being questioned over the woman's death, after her body was discovered near a sports ground in Thornfield Avenue, Hendon, north London, at approximately 5pm on Sunday.

Police had previously appealed for witnesses who may have seen someone moving a heavy trolley-type case in the area nearby, on or after 18 July.

Detective Chief Inspector Nicola Wall said: "The homicide and serious crime command are still in the early stages of this investigation and urgently require the assistance of the public to help us establish the circumstances around the murder of this young woman.

"We are also interested in hearing from anyone who is concerned about any young adult females who have gone missing from the immediate area recently."

Detective Chief Superintendent Adrian Usher, Borough Commander for Barnet, described the young woman's death as "a tragic and shocking thing to happen."

"I am sure local people will be feeling unsettled by this news," he added.

"Crimes of this serious nature are incredibly rare in our borough, which may only add to local concern over what has happened. I would like to reassure the local community that we are working closely with specialist homicide teams to establish the full circumstances surrounding this murder."

Police patrols have been increased in the area where the body was discovered.

Anyone with any information is being advised to call police on 020 8785 8334, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to remain anonymous.

A post-mortem examination was due to take place this afternoon and the woman's identity has not been released by police.