POLICE are on the hunt for a man who may have arranged to meet a woman he met online – who was later murdered in her home.

The body of Usha Patel, 44, was discovered at her home in Melrose Avenue, Cricklewood yesterday morning (October 8) at 8.10am.

Officers want to speak to 34-year-old Miles Donnelly, who is also known as Miles Ryan, in connection with the death.

He is described as white and about 5ft 11ins tall. His last known address was in Paddington, but is believed to visit many London boroughs.

Police believe Ms Patel and Donnelly had been in contact online and arranged to meet.

Anyone who may have seen Donnelly is advised not to approach him but to call 999 instead.

A post-mortem will take place today (October 9) at Northwick Park Mortuary.

Detective Chief Inspector Matt Bonner of the Homicide and Major Crime Command is leading a murder investigation into the case.

He said: "Enquiries are underway to establish the full circumstances of Usha's death and as part of these enquiries I am very keen to speak to Miles Donnelly, aka Miles Ryan, as he may have information which could assist me.

"I would appeal directly to him to contact the police so that we can speak to him. It is possible that he will look to friends and associates for support, and I urge them not to get involved but to contact us instead.

"I would like to reassure anyone who is worried about contacting the police that they will be treated with the utmost sensitivity."

Anyone with information is asked to call 020 8358 0200 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.