A murder investigation has begun after a 17-year-old boy was stabbed in Battersea, south London, in the early hours.

Police officers, paramedics and the London Air Ambulance were called to reports of a stabbing following a possible altercation on Glycena Road near Lavender Hill at about 04:20 BST.

The boy was found injured and he received medical treatment, but died at the scene. His next of kin has been informed, the Metropolitan Police said.

No arrests have been made and a large crime scene is in place, with several surrounding roads closed off. Police are appealing to those in the area at the time to come forward with any relevant information or video footage.

'Significant concern'

Det Ch Insp Brian Howie from the Metropolitan Police said: "Our inquiries are progressing intensively, and our thoughts remain firmly with the victim's family at this extremely difficult time.

"I understand this incident will cause significant concern within the community.

"There is a continued and highly visible police presence in the area, and I would encourage anyone with concerns to approach officers at the scene."

He said he especially wanted to hear from people who saw a group of males running in the area - specifically on Glycena Road, Acanthus Road or Pountney Road - between 04:00 and 05:00.

"Any information, no matter how minor it may seem, could prove crucial. CCTV, doorbell or mobile phone footage may provide vital evidence," Howie added.

"I would also urge members of the public not to assume that information has already been shared; any detail could be of significant importance to the investigation."