The grisly discovery of a missing man’s severed thumb has led police to investigate whether there is a Croydon link to his kidnap.

Forensic tests confirmed the body part belonged to 41-year-old Mahmood Ahmad, who was reported missing after finishing his shift in a Watford kebab shop early on March 7.

Police have refused to rule out the possibility of murder following the gruesome find, which was found by a member of the public in Ilford on March 10.

His wife Farah made an impassioned plea for information about her husband’s disappearance on Monday, the date of their second wedding anniversary.

She said: “These last few weeks have been unbearable and we are desperate for any news or information on Mahmood.

“If you know anything about his kidnap or saw any suspicious activity, I am appealing personally to you to come forward.”

A 39-year-old man from Croydon and three others have been arrested in connection with the disappearance.

The family have launched their own website, findmahmoodahmad.co.uk, and Facebook group entitled “Please help us find kidnapped Mahmood Ahmad”, and have been appealing at mosques across the country for information.

Anyone who thinks they can help should ring 01707 355798, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

* Mohammed Riaz, 33, of no fixed abode has been charged with kidnap, false imprisonment, harassment and burglary in connection with Mr Ahmad’s disappearance.

He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear in court on May 24.

Arnold Yousaf, aged 18, from Cann Hall Road in East London, and a 17-year-old from London have also been charged with kidnap and remanded in custody.