A 24-year-old man has been convicted of murdering a woman in west London after detectives uncovered messages revealing controlling and abusive behaviour before her death.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed on 15 October 2026 that Deepak Sandhu was found guilty of murdering 39-year-old Xiaoqing Ke at the Old Bailey. The investigation found that Sandhu had become increasingly angry after Ke attempted to end their relationship.

Victim Found Dead at Earl’s Court Address

Police were called to a property on Old Brompton Road, Earl’s Court, on 10 December 2025, where officers found Ke dead. Detectives examined mobile phones, clothing and forensic evidence as they investigated the circumstances surrounding her death.

Investigators established that Sandhu had travelled from Southampton to London before the attack. Police later located and arrested him on a coach as he was travelling towards an airport, after he had booked a flight to Mumbai.

Sentencing Due at the Old Bailey

Sandhu was scheduled to be sentenced at the Old Bailey on 16 October 2026. The case has also highlighted concerns about controlling behaviour and violence against women and girls.

The Metropolitan Police said the investigation relied on digital messages and forensic evidence to establish the circumstances of the crime.