THE FAMILY of a black equal rights activist, who was shot in the head whilst at a party, has thanked the public for their 'kind words'.

Sasha Johnson, who referred to herself as Oxford's Black Panther, was shot in the head on Sunday evening.

Police said they believe Ms Johnson was not the intended victim of a targeted attacked and was shot when four men opened fire at the party in Peckham, in South-East London.

Read here: Black equal rights activist in critical condition after being shot in the head

Metropolitan Police Commander Alison Heydari said a group of four black men had entered the garden where the party was being held and “discharged a firearm”.

In a statement, she said: “This was a shocking incident that has left a young woman with very serious injuries.

“We are aware of Sasha’s involvement in the Black Lives Matter movement in the UK and I understand the concern this will cause to some communities – however, I wish to stress that at this time there is nothing to suggest Sasha was the victim of a targeted attack.

“We are also not aware of any reports of threats made against her prior to this incident.”

Ms Johnson is a known figure in the Black Lives Matter movement and is described as “a strong, powerful voice for our people and our community” by the Taking The Initiative Party, of which she is a member.

She works in activism and community support and got a first in social care at Oxford University.

Read also: Oxford's anti-racism group react to equal rights activist being shot

Ms Johnson’s friend Imarn Ayton told BBC News that the young mother has successfully undergone surgery and her parents are with her in hospital.

In a statement, Ms Johnson's family said: "We'd like to thank everyone for their support and kind words at this difficult time.

"We have been overwhelmed at the outpouring of tributes and recognition of Sasha's leadership and community work.

"We'd like to ask that our privacy is respected at this time so we can focus our energy on Sasha and her recovery, and we ask that you keep her in your prayers.

"Thank you."