A murder investigation is under way in Kilburn after a woman was found stabbed to death in a flat.

Police believe she was a prostitute and have urged sex workers to be “vigilant” – and to tell them about clients who become threatening or violent.

Cops found the 32-year-old woman in Fernhead Road shortly before 1am on Monday. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The woman’s death was initially treated as unexplained – but a post-mortem concluded that she was fatally stabbed.

Officers believe they know the identity of the woman and her next-of-kin have been informed.

No one has been arrested.

Det Ch Insp Nicola Wall said: “We know the victim lived alone and her family who live in Italy last heard from her on May 21.

“Officers attended her home address on May 29 following concerns raised by a neighbour and the decision was taken to force entry into the property.

“We have established the victim was in the Kilburn area on May 22 but we further need to understand her movements from this date onwards.”

She added: “It is considered likely that the motive is linked to the victim being a sex worker.

“I would urge sex workers in the London area to be extra vigilant at this time. We are working hard to identify the attacker but we urgently require their assistance.

“If you have any concerns about a recent client’s behaviour, especially where threats or violence have been used, do come and speak with us.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 020 8785 8244 or tweet @MetCC.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or contact National Ugly Mugs (NUM), which provides protection for sex workers. Visit uglymugs.org for more.