A 54-year-old woman, identified as Zulma Guzman Castro, faced a detention hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London after her apprehension for extradition. Colombian authorities are seeking her in connection with the alleged poisoning of two teenage girls who died from consuming raspberries laced with a harmful substance.
Appearing in court in a black jacket and white-and-black striped top, Guzman Castro acknowledged her identity but declined to consent to extradition. Reports indicated that she was discovered in the River Thames near Battersea Bridge a month ago.
During the proceedings, prosecutor Rosemary Davidson mentioned that Guzman Castro had a prior detention under the Mental Health Act and was taken into custody by the police post her hospital discharge on the same day.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed responding to a distress call on December 16 about a woman on Battersea Bridge. She was rescued from the water by the Marine Policing Unit and received non-life-threatening injuries.
District Judge Sarah Turnock ordered Guzman Castro to remain in custody until a case management hearing scheduled for January 12.
In a statement, an NCA spokesperson disclosed the arrest of Zulma Guzman Castro in London’s W10 area by the National Extradition Unit. She faces charges of murder and attempted murder according to Colombian authorities and is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court for further proceedings.
Stay updated with the latest news by subscribing to our email newsletter for daily highlights.