London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Clifton George, 44, has been charged after Annabel Rook, a women’s rights advocate, was found with fatal stab wounds in north London.
As reported by The Guardian, police have charged a suspect with the murder of a female charity worker. She was found dead at her residence following a reported gas explosion.
Annabel Rook was found with multiple stab wounds on Dumont Road, Stoke Newington. Clifton George has been arrested in connection with her death.
Who was Annabel Rook?
At 46, Annabel Rook was recognised for her work supporting women affected by gender-based violence.
She helped start MamaSuze, a group that helps refugee and migrant women. The group uses art and drama to support their healing and recovery.
Annabel Rook’s family’s views on her death
In a statement released through the Metropolitan Police, Annabel Rook’s family said they are “struggling to come to terms with this terrible tragedy.”
They stated,
“We have lost our beautiful daughter, sister, friend and mother. Annabel was a truly wonderful woman. She touched the hearts of so many.”
Her family added,
“She gave her life to helping the vulnerable and the disadvantaged, whether it was in refugee camps in Africa, or setting up MamaSuze in London to enhance the lives of survivors of forced displacement and gender-based violence.”
What did John Martin say about Annabel Rook’s work with refugee women?
John Martin, artistic director of Pan Intercultural Arts, where Rook spent 16 years supporting young refugees until 2022, described her as “a larger-than-life character” who began as a volunteer.
He said,
“Annabel’s energy brought a lot to the women and gave them new hope. This was her speciality, I think – a sort of boundless optimism, a boundless self-confidence, which she transferred on to other people.”
Mr Martin added,
“She spent her life, certainly the 10, 12 years that I knew her, fighting [for] women who had been abused [and] fighting against violence to women.”
What did MamaSuze say about the loss of their co-founder, Annabel Rook?
In a statement released by MamaSuze, the organisation said it was “devastated by the loss of our beloved co-founder,” and described Annabel Rook as someone who treated others with “warmth and kindness.”
It added,
“Annabel was a profound force for good in the world, dedicating her working life to supporting women survivors.”
How did police respond after the murder charge in Annabel Rook’s death?
The acting DCS, Brittany Clarke, stated,
“Our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of Annabel as they navigate this devastating loss.”
She added,
“We ask that the public refrain from speculation and respect their privacy at this time, and we thank the Hackney community for their ongoing support.”
Key facts about murders in London in 2025
- Total deaths: 34 recorded in London as of June 22, 2025.
- Weapons used: Knives were most common; one shooting was reported.
- Age: Victims aged from 14 to 75 years.
- Domestic cases: Included Larry Chaters (68), allegedly killed by his son.
- Arrests: Quick action in many cases; several suspects charged.