Suspects in murder of 10-year-old girl in Surrey have fled the country, police say

Three suspects wanted in connection with the murder of a 10-year-old-girl in Surrey have fled the country, police said.

Detectives launched a murder investigation on Thursday after the child was found dead in a home in Horsell, in the borough of Woking.

A Pakistani family with six “very young” children had moved into the house where the body was discovered in April, neighbours said.

There was a heavy police presence at the semi-detached property on Friday as people laid flowers on the pavement.

One mother, who asked not to be named, said she was “traumatised” by the news, adding that her children were terrified.

She said: “It’s just a shock. My 16-year-old daughter was very upset thinking about that little girl.”

In a statement on Thursday evening, Surrey Police said officers were called to the address at around 2.50am that morning following “concern” for the girl’s safety.

The investigation is being led by Surrey Police and Sussex Police’s major crime team.

The child’s loved ones have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers, Surrey Police said.

Working with international authorities

In a statement on Friday afternoon, Det Chief Insp Debbie White, the senior investigating officer in the case, said: “Our investigation into this tragic incident has continued at pace today with a number of inquiries under way.

“We have identified three people we would like to speak to in connection with our investigation and from our inquiries, we believe that they left the country on Wednesday, August 9.

“We are working with our partners, including international authorities, to locate them.”

Insp Sandra Carlier, borough commander for Woking, said: “I know that the community are shocked and saddened by yesterday’s events, and we stand with them in their grief.

“Officers will remain in the area carrying out patrols, and inquiries as part of the investigation, over the weekend.

“I would like to reiterate that we do not believe there to be any risk to the wider public at this time.

“We will continue to provide updates as and when we are able to.”