Police praise courage of Hannah's family (From Daily Echo)

Police praise courage of Hannah's family

2:39pm Tuesday 25th November 2008 in Hannah Foster By Jenny Makin, Assistant News Editor

The man who led the hunt for Hannah's killer today spoke of his admiration for her family.

Det Supt Alan Betts said today's verdict was the culmination of a difficult investigation that was greatly helped by determination of Hannah's parents.

• Click here for complete coverage of the trial so far

Det Supt Betts said: "Today's verdict marks the end of an extremely long and complicated investigation by officers from Hampshire constabulary.

"Hannah Foster was a beautiful, intelligent young woman with a lifetime of opportunities ahead of her. "

These were taken away from her by the despicable acts of Maninder Pal Simgh Kohli, which shocked the whole community and have had a significant impact on the lives of many people both in this country and in India.

"Kohli did everything he could to avoid justice and it was only through the determination of Hannah’s parents, Hampshire police and colleagues in India that he was located and arrested.

"The extradition was a very lengthy and at times frustrating process and staff from the British High Commission in India provided invaluable support.

The prosecution team of police, CPS, and counsel have worked tirelessly to put together and present the case which has led to today’s conviction after five-and-a-half years.

"Vitally I would like to thank members of the public who greatly assisted this investigation by calling in with information in response to our appeals and in particular those members of the public who gave evidence during the trial.

"Our thoughts today are with Hannah’s family. They and we may get some satisfaction that Kohli has been convicted but it will not bring Hannah back."