Rebecca Dykes: UK Diplomat Found ‘Murdered At Side Of Motorway’ In Lebanon

A British embassy worker in Lebanon has been found murdered at the side of a motorway, reports have said.

Police in Beirut are investigating the sudden death Rebecca Dykes, a diplomat at the embassy in the city, who was found on Saturday.

Reports said authorities believe Dykes, in her 30s, may have been sexually assaulted before being strangled.

Unnamed forensic and security officials have been cited by the Associated Press news agency.

A family spokesman said: “We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Rebecca. We are doing all we can to understand what happened.

“We request that the media respect our privacy as we come together as a family at this very difficult time.”

A spokesman for the Department for International Development, where she worked, said: “Our thoughts are with Becky’s family and friends at this very upsetting time.

“There is now a police investigation and the FCO (Foreign Office) is providing consular support to Becky’s family and working with the local authorities.”

A Foreign Office spokesman added: “Following the death of a British woman in Beirut, we are providing support to the family.

“We remain in close contact with local authorities. Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time.”