Human remains found in search for woman who disappeared from Derby 15 years ago

Izabela Helena Zablocka last made contact with her family in Poland in August 2010

Author: Jaimielee RendallPublished 3rd Jun 2025

Police searching for a Polish woman, who disappeared from Derbyshire 15 years ago, have found human remains.

Izabela Helena Zablocka last made contact with her family in August 2010.

Detectives launched an investigation last week, following information that came to light in connection with the then 30-year-old Izabela’s disappearance.

Izabela came to the UK in 2009 and lived in Princes Street, Normanton. She last made contact with family in Poland on 28 August 2010, but despite their efforts to trace her, was never found.

Police say searches have been concentrated at an address in Princes Street since then which have now led to the discovery of human remains in the garden.

A 39-year-old woman who was arrested on suspicion of murder has today been rearrested.

Detective Inspector Kane Martin, who is leading the investigation said: “Izabela’s family are at the forefront of our minds following this discovery and, whilst formal identification has not yet taken place, it is our belief that these remains do belong to Izabela.

“As such, we have spoken with Izabela’s family in Poland, and they are aware. Our thoughts are with them at this extremely difficult time.

“Identification of the remains is likely to be a lengthy process, but we will issue updates when we are able.

“I know that reports of these findings will send shockwaves through the local community, and I understand the concern of residents.

“Officers will remain in Princes Street in the coming days, and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak with them.

“A dedicated team of detectives are continuing to piece together information about the days prior to Izabela’s death.

“Izabela had friends in Derby, socialised in Derby, and worked in Derby.

“We know that someone out there will have information about Izabela that may help us understand what happened to her, and urge anyone who saw, spoke to, or heard anything about Izabela in July or August 2010 to come forward.

“You may hold the key piece of information that we need to understand the full circumstances of Izabela’s disappearance, and to give her family answers on what happened to their loved one.

“Anyone who does wish to make contact, can do so completely anonymously through the charity Crimestoppers who are offering a £20,000 reward for any information which leads to the conviction of someone in the case of Izabela.”

Two other women – one aged 39 and one aged 43 – and a 41-year-old man, were arrested in connection with the investigation over the course of the last week.

They remain on police bail pending further inquiries.

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