43 year old Alvin Gitahi has been found guilty of murder at Southwark Crown Court.

It follows an investigation by the Met following the death of Vivienne Baraka in Ealing in March 2024, which saw investigators seize and examine electronic devices to help build a case against Gitahi.

Police were called in March 2024 after concerns were raised for the welfare of a woman at an address in Riverside Close.

Officers and London Ambulance Service attended and found 35-year-old Vivienne Baraka suffering injuries. Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

A post-mortem examination showed Vivienne had died from compression to the neck.

Gitahi was arrested at the scene, and a murder investigation was launched.

Electronic devices were seized from the address, revealing messages between Vivienne and Gitahi which indicated that Vivienne was subject to repeated abusive behaviour.

Phone records also showed Vivienne rang her mother shortly before her death and told her to call 999, saying that she was in danger and Gitahi beat her all the time.

In a statement, Vivienne’s family said: “We are grateful that justice has prevailed. Vivienne was very community-orientated and helped a lot of people during her life.

“She was taken from us far too soon. She was a very much-loved member of our family, and she is missed every day.

“Vivienne’s spirit lives on in her daughter. We would like to thank everyone who has supported us through this difficult time.”

Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Denby, who led the investigation, said: “Our thoughts are with Vivienne’s loved ones, who have lost a mother, daughter and a friend.

“This is a devastating case where a young woman has been subject to ongoing violence in her own home, culminating in her tragic death. While no outcome can undo this loss, we hope today’s conviction brings her family and friends some measure of closure and reassurance that Gitahi has been held accountable for his actions.

“Our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls remains firm. We will continue to pursue offenders and work closely with partner agencies to prevent harm and support victims. We encourage anyone affected to seek help from the police or support services.”