The baby’s body was found at a residential address in Harold Hill after welfare concerns were raised.

At approximately 19:40hrs on Tuesday, 22 August police were called to Mimosa Close, and the body of a new born baby girl, was found by officers.

Detective Superintendent Lewis Basford, from the Met’s Public Protection team covering Havering, said: “This is a tragic incident and we understand it will be hugely upsetting for local people.

“Our officers are still at the scene and we thank residents for their patience while we carry out our critical enquiries.

“At this time, the baby’s death is being treated as unexplained and a post-mortem examination will take place at the earliest opportunity to help us determine what may have happened and to confirm how long the baby’s body had been there.

“A man and a woman arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident remain in custody.”

Anyone with information which could assist the police investigation is asked to contact police quoting CAD 6024/23Aug, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(Source: Metropolitan Police)