Gemma McCluskie, who appeared in more than 30 episodes of the soap as Kerry Skinner – who was mates with Zoe Slater in the show, played by Michelle Ryan – has been missing since last Thursday.

A torso was pulled from Regent’s Canal on Tuesday afternoon, close to Broadway Market. Police are continuing to search the area around the canal (pictured).

The Daily Mail reported that sources said the body was naked and the arms, legs and head had been cut off with a sharp tool.

McCluskie’s brother, Tony, was arrested yesterday after officers raided the East London home the siblings had shared.

The ex-EastEnders star was last seen in a Hackney kebab shop after a night out, according to the Mail.

The family has declined to comment following the discovery of the body.

Picture: Getty