Detectives investigating the “callous” murder of an 80-year-old found dead in a shed on her allotment today offered a £20,000 reward.

The appeal came as the children of Lea Adri-Soejoko issued a desperate plea for information to shed light on the final hours of the “kind and loving” mother.

Ms Adei-Soejoko, also known as Lea Hulselmans, was found dead in a lock-up on the communal gardens in Colindale on February 28. Her wrists had been tied with a lawnmower cord.

Scotland Yard is offering £20,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of Mubarick Duat, 37, who has a series of aliases including Mubarick Duah, Kwaka Duah and Mubarice Duah.

Borehamwood Times:

Police are hunting Mubarick Duat, also known as Mubarick Duah, Kwaka Duah and Mubarice Duah - among other aliases

Described as black, slim and 5ft 8ins tall, he is known to have previously frequented the areas of Hackney, Dalston, Malden, Colindale, Thornton Heath, Wimbledon, Hammersmith and Fulham.

Detective Chief Inspector Noel McHugh, who is leading the investigation by Homicide and Major Crime Command, said: “We urgently need to trace Duat in connection with this murder.

"There is a substantial reward on offer and I hope it encourages someone to come forward with information that leads to Duat’s arrest and prosecution.

“Duat has been circulated as wanted and it is crucial we detain him as soon as possible.

“Duat can be violent so if you see him please do not approach him but call 999 immediately.”

Lea’s family said: “What is keeping us going is the hope that we will find out the truth about the callous death of our kind and loving mum.

“We need your help, the public, to support us now by assisting the investigation and helping to shed light on mum’s final hours and by finding Mubarick Duat. If you have any idea where this man is, please contact the police.”

A 40-year-old man was charged with murder on March 5 and is due to appear at the Old Bailey on July 10.

Anyone who sees Duat is urged not to approach him but call 999 immediately.

Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the incident room on 020 8785 8099, or police via 101 or @MetCC. To give information anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.