A murder investigation has been launched after teenager died in a stabbing in Forest Gate.

Police say they are “confident” the victim of the attack is Sami Sidhom, an 18-year-old man from Newham.

Emergency services were called to Chestnut Avenue, opposite Wanstead Flats, at around 10.50pm on Monday.

Paramedics and police officers found the victim, believed to be Mr Sidhom, suffering from serious stab wounds.

He was pronounced dead at the scene at around 11.30pm.

Scotland Yard said Mr Sidhom’s next of kind had been informed and identification and a post-mortem examination will be arranged in due course.

No arrests have been made in connection with the killing. The Met’s Homicide and Major Crime Command unit are investigating.

Detective Inspector John Marriott, who is leading the investigation, commented: "We are at the early stages of the investigation and my team retain an open mind as to the motive for Sami's murder.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who may have been in the area last night and may have seen or heard anything.

"It doesn't matter how big or small you think your information may be; it could be the piece of the puzzle that helps bring the person that killed a young man last night to justice."

Any witnesses, or anyone with information on the incident is asked to call officers via 101 quoting: CAD 8332/apr16, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on: 0800 555 111.