Speaking on Tuesday evening, a spokesman from the Norfolk Constabulary said: “The pathologist believes it is highly unlikely the death was through natural causes. There is no evidence of accidental injury, damage due to firearms or bladed weapon.
“Samples have been taken which should provide a DNA profile within the next 24 hours.”
Police removed the woman’s body from the scene at lunchtime and forensic officers were seen coming out of the wood carrying evidence bags.
Detectives from the force were alerted to the discovery by a member of the public at Anmer, which lies on the royal family‘s Sandringham estate.
Detective Chief Inspector Jes Fry said that officers are examining cold cases nationwide for potential links.
The remains were found less than a mile away from where the royal family spent Christmas.
The area was sealed off and a detailed search is being carried out.
Earlier, the force said: “Detectives from Norfolk Constabulary have launched an investigation following the discovery of human remains in an area of woodland at Anmer, near King’s Lynn.
“The area has been sealed off and a detailed search is currently being carried out.”
Buckingham Palace said it had no comment to make as it was “a matter for Norfolk police”.
Last March, the remains of an American man who sent hundreds of letters to the Queen was found on an island in St James’s Park, just 100 yards from Buckingham Palace.
Robert Moore, 69, had set up camp on the island and his remains were thought to have gone undiscovered for three years, an inquest was told.