A murder investigation has been launched after a Russian businessman was strangled to death in New Malden.

Nikolay Glushkov, 68, was found dead at his home in Clarence Avenue on Monday, March 12.

A post-mortem examination carried out on March 15 found the cause of death was “compression to the neck”.

His family have been informed.

The Met Police’s counter terrorism command, which has led the investigation from the start, will continue to do so because of “associations” Mr Glushkov had.

The victim, a retired financial director, had lived in his New Malden home for two years.

A neighbour described him as a “nice man” who used to give his neighbour’s children gifts at Christmas.

See related: Rumoured death of Nikolay Glushkov in New Malden: police investigation

Detectives are “keeping an open mind” and are appealing for any information that may help the investigation.

If anyone wishes to give information, they can do so in confidence on 0800 789 321.

Police are particularly appealing for anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious around his home in Clarence Avenue between Sunday, March 11, and Monday, March 12.