Sam Tarry, the Labour MP for Ilford South, added that the local community had been left shaken following Aleena’s killing.

“Ilford isn’t somewhere where people generally are going to be fearful about going about their business. Like any part of London, of course, low-level crime is always an issue, but this is something which is out of the ordinary,” he said. “My message really to my constituents is that we will do everything to remember this woman who’s lost her life in this horrendous way.”

In response, Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell of the Met police insisted that tackling violence against women and girls was an “absolute priority” for the force. “Every day our officers are working with partners across the capital to improve safety in our public spaces,” he said.

“Women should not have to change their behaviour and should be able to go about their business, feeling safe, any time of day or night. It’s our job to ensure that happens – but officers cannot be in all places at all times. I would urge our community, especially women, to report any suspicious or unwanted behaviour and seek help if you feel threatened.”

Zara Aleena murder: Jordan McSweeney wins court of appeal challenge to have his minimum sentence reduced