A murder investigation has been launched after a woman's body was found in the grounds of a Plaistow church.
Police were called after the body was discovered in the grounds of Memorial Community Church in Barking Road on Thursday at around 3pm.
Officers and London Ambulance Service paramedics found the victim, a woman in her early 40s, with multiple injuries.
She was declared dead at the scene, police said.
Officers are working to trace the her next of kin.
They believe the incident happened between 12.45am and 1.45pm on Thursday, March 26 and are appealing for any witnesses or people with information to come forward.
Detective Inspector Darren Jones, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are working hard to establish the circumstances of what happened to the victim and at this stage we are keeping an open mind regarding a motive.
“There is a dedicated team who are exploring every single avenue to track down the persons responsible.
“Our thoughts are with the victim and her family.”
North East Area Borough Commander Richard Tucker added that a team of specialist officers are working to find and arrest whoever is responsible for the "shocking incident."
"I am grateful for our local communiy's support and assistance during this time," he said.
A crime scene is in place as police conduct a detailed search in the surrounding area. Road closures are in place and no arrests have been made.
Anyone with information about incident is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 3805/25Mar or call the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.
