A manhunt is underway in Woolwich, London, following the discovery of a 43-year-old woman who was found dead in her flat on Argyll Road.

The Metropolitan Police were alerted and responded to concerns for the occupant's welfare at approximately 5:25 pm on Friday.

Upon entry, officers found the woman deceased and have since confirmed that a suspect, known to the victim, is being actively sought.

Police have informed the next of kin, though formal identification has yet to be completed.

An initial post mortem examination conducted on Saturday revealed that the cause of death was blunt force trauma and head injury.

Detective Chief Inspector Suzanne Soren from the Specialist Crime South unit stated that the incident is regarded as profoundly tragic, and the victim's family is currently being supported by specialist officers.

The investigation is in its early stages, but preliminary findings suggest that the suspect had a pre-existing relationship with the victim.

Urgent inquiries are being conducted to trace a specific person of interest.

Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in their investigation.

They have requested anyone with pertinent information to contact them via phone by calling 101 with reference number CAD 5231/17Jan.

The incident has drawn significant attention, with law enforcement focused on swiftly locating the suspect involved.