OP DRYANT - Appeal relating to act of manslaughter
Police are appealing for information relating to the death of 36 year old Gillian Morand, who died in March 2020 in Bexley. Following new information, a man has now been charged with manslaughter and coercive and controlling behaviour. Officers are urging anyone who knew Gillian, or has information about her life in the years before she died, to come forward.
Op Dryant - Appeal for information following a manslaughter charge re death of Gillian MORAND
Detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command are appealing for information following the manslaughter charge relating to the death of 36‑year‑old Gillian Morand.
Gillian died in March 2020 and an inquest at the time recorded her death as suicide.
Following new information about coercive and controlling domestic abuse that Gillian suffered, the Met undertook further investigations, which have now led to criminal charges.
On 5th March 2026, officers arrested 45‑year‑old Seyhan Assaf, who has since been charged with manslaughter and coercive and controlling behaviour.
Detectives are now appealing for anyone who had contact with Gillian in the decade prior to her death, or who holds any information, no matter how small, to come forward. Your information could be vital to this investigation.
Contact Information
If you would prefer to speak directly to a police officer, please call 101 and quote CAD 4727 of 6th March 2026 for Op DRYANT.
Alternatively, you can submit information, photos, screenshots, or videos directly to the investigation team through this Major Incident Public Portal.
You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org (Ctrl+Click to follow link)