A murder inquiry has been launched following the death of a woman believed to have been involved in prostitution.

Police were informed of the death of a woman in a property in Union Terrace, Aberdeen, around 1.10pm on Friday, February 12, 2016.

A major investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the death is ongoing and police are appealing for information from the public.

Door to door inquiries continue to be carried out and officers are also reviewing CCTV footage to obtain as much information as possible.

Detective Superintendent David McLaren, from Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team who is leading the inquiry, said: "There is no doubt that this incident will raise concerns in Aberdeen and the wider community but I would like to take this opportunity to reassure the public that a significant police investigation has commenced and all efforts will be made to trace the person or people responsible.

"A priority for us is establishing the woman's recent movements, identify who she may have been in contact with and ultimately determine what happened to her prior to her being found on Friday afternoon.

"Investigations are at a very early stage however a line of inquiry at this time is the suggestion that the woman may have been involved in prostitution and as such Police Scotland is actively engaging with support groups nationally.

"I am appealing for anyone who may have any information that would assist us with our inquiry to speak to us. We would ask that people remain vigilant and follow personal safety advice.

"We want to reassure the community that there will be a visible police presence in the area as we continue with our inquiries into this incident.

"Anyone with information can speak to an officer or call Police Scotland on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."