A murder investigation has been launched in Croydon over a man wanted in connection with robberies.

Police say Jamie Gilbey, 20, has "come to harm" and they are keeping an open mind around the circumstances.

A crime scene is in place in South Norwood Country Park after officers discovered suspicious items while on patrol at around 1.45pm on Sunday.

These have been sent for further analysis and officers await further information.

Police remain in the area of Love Lane and continue to conduct searches.

They do not think there is a wider risk to community members.

Officers had previously appealed for information about Jamie's whereabouts in a missing person appeal.

He was last seen on January 27.

Jamie, from Crystal Palace, was also sought in connection with a number of robbery offences.

There have been no arrests at this stage.

His family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers while the investigation continues.

Police are urging the public to get in touch with any information.

Detective Inspector Melanie Pressley, Specialist Crime, said: “We fully recognise this news and the police presence in the park will cause considerable concern to local people, however I want to say that we do not believe there to be any wider risk to members of the community.

"This is a fast-moving and complex investigation, and we're following a number of positive leads as we work to establish what has happened to Jamie.

"Anyone who has information that could help us piece together a picture of Jamie's life and who he had been interacting with should call us immediately.

"Jamie's family are distraught and it is imperative we give them the answers to the questions that they are now asking."

Chief Superintendent Dave Stringer, responsible for local policing in Croydon, Sutton and Bromley, said: “My officers main on scene and providing a visible presence in the area for some days to come.

"I urge any members of the public who have any concerns, or information that could help us bring Jamie’s family justice, to approach those officers and speak to them.”

A Met Police spokesperson said: "A crime scene is in place in South Norwood Country Park in Croydon following the launch of a murder investigation.

"At about 13:45hrs on Sunday, 27 February, officers patrol discovered a number of suspicious items.

"These have been sent for further analysis and detectives await further information As part of our initial enquiries, it is thought that Jamie Gilbey, aged 20 and from the Crystal Palace area, has come to harm and a murder investigation has begun.

"His family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers while the investigation continues.

"Detectives will not be discussing any further details around the discovery at this stage.

"Police remain in the area of Love Lane and continue to conduct searches.

"We had previously appealed for information about Jamie's whereabouts in a missing person appeal. He was last been seen on 27 January.

"He was also sought in connection with a number of robbery offences.

"Detectives are keeping an open mind around the circumstances.

"There have been no arrests at this stage.

"To remain 100% anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."