Boyfriend of teenager killed in student halls is arrested

The boyfriend of student who was killed in her university accommodation has been arrested by police.

Sabita Thanwani, a student at City, University of London, died on Saturday morning in Arbour House, Sebastian Street, in Clerkenwell.

Her boyfriend Maher Maaroufe was arrested by officers on Sunday afternoon on suspicion of murder and assault on police.

He remains in police custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Linda Bradley who leads the investigation said: “I would like to thank everyone for publicising and sharing our appeal to trace Maaroufe.“Sabita’s family have been updated with this development and continue to be supported by specially trained officers. Our deepest condolences are with them.”

Police were called to Arbour House at 5.10am where they found Ms Thanwani with serious neck injuries.

Despite efforts from emergency services, Ms Thanwani died at the scene.

Officers had appealed for help to find Mr Maaroufe, 22, who they believe had been in a relationship with Ms Thanwani.

Mr Maaroufe is a Tunisian national who has no fixed address. He is not a student.

Police said Ms Thanwani’s family have been informed and will be supported by specialist officers.

A special post-mortem examination will be arranged in due course.