Murder charge for Juan Toledo of south-east London as body of Yajaira Castro Mendez found near A31 at Bolderwood in the New Forest

A man has appeared in court charged with murder as the body of a missing woman was found near a New Forest Road.

The body of Yajaira Castro Mendez, from Ilford in east London, was discovered by police near the A31 at Bolderwood yesterday (Saturday).

The 46-year-old, a Colombian national who has been living in the UK, had not been seen since leaving her home on 29th May.

Juan Toledo (51), from south-east London, has been charged with her murder, and appeared at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court on Friday. He was remanded in custody.

Formal identification has yet to take place, but Ms Castro Mendez’s family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers. A post-mortem is yet to be held.

Det Insp Jay Gregory, of the Met Police, said: “This is a very sad development in the investigation and our thoughts are very much with Yajaira’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

“We continue to appeal to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to please come forward.”

Chief Superintendent Jason Stewart said: “We are not searching for anyone else at this stage. The man and Yajaira are believed to be known to each other.”

Ms Castro Mendez’s disappearance was reported to police on 31st May, and was initially treated as a missing person investigation. On 5th June, however, after further enquiries, the probe was transferred to the Met Police’s specialist crime command as it became apparent she came to harm.

Those with information about Ms Castro Mendez’s death should contact police via 101 or @MetCC quoting CAD 3020/06JUN25.