An investigation has been launched into the murder-suicide of a midwife and her husband.

Simbiso Aretha Moula, who worked at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospital, and her husband Garikayi Moula, 51, were found dead in their home in Lower Mardyke Avenue in Rainham on Friday.

Post mortem examinations at Queens Hospital Mortuary, Romford, found that Mrs Moula died of compression of the neck and Mr Moula died of suspension.

Following the post mortem examination, Mrs Moula’s death is being treated as murder, while Mr Moula’s death is not being treated as suspicious.

No one else is sought in connection with their deaths.

The Met Police were called to the couple’s home at 7.50am on Friday after the couple were found deceased.

The next of kin have been informed by officers.

Mrs Moula had worked as a midwife for 11 years prior to her death.

Kathryn Halford chief nurse at the trust said: “We are all shocked and saddened by the tragic death last week of one of our midwives, Simbiso Aretha Moula.

“Simbi was a popular, valued member of our midwifery team at Queen’s Hospital in Romford.

“During her 11 years at our trust she built great relationships and friendships with her colleagues.

“We will remember her fondly for her professionalism, kindness and compassion, as will the many mothers she cared for so well.

“Our thoughts are with her family, especially her children, and her friends at this intensely difficult time.”

Detectives from the Met's Homicide and Major Crime Command continue their investigation.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Considine said: "I would like to thank those members of the public with whom we have spoken as part of our inquiry thus far.

"We are ensuring that next of kin are being fully supported at this most difficult of times.

"If you heard or saw anything at the address that seemed out of place or of concern between the hours of 10.30pm on Thursday, 3 January, and 8.00am the following day, please don't hesitate to contact us."

Anyone with information should call the HMCC Incident Room on 020 8345 3865, Tweet @MetCC or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.