DETECTIVES hunting the murderer of a Southampton dad have warned that anyone helping the prime suspect evade capture is risking a prison sentence.

Police have renewed their appeal to trace 23-year-old Kevin Suika, suspected of killing Michael Freshwater in April.

The 49-year-old's body was found at a house in Westridge Road, Portswood.

Last week officers arrested a 28-year-old man from Southampton on suspicion of assisting an offender, conspiracy to supply class A drugs and money laundering in connection with the murder. The man has since been released on bail until August 26 pending further enquiries.

A 34-year-old man from Southampton who was arrested on May 9 on suspicion of assisting an offender and later released on bail until July 7 has also been re-bailed until August 25 pending further enquiries.

Detectives say they believe Suika has links to Gloucester, Southampton, Holloway, Bromley and Kent and are once again urging the public to help find him following the murder of Mr Freshwater, who was known as Micky, in April.

Detective Superintendent Becky Riggs said: “This remains an active murder investigation. Suika knows we are looking for him and he should also know, we will not stop until we find him.

“Anyone found to be harbouring Suika or assisting him in avoiding arrest should be warned that they are also committing an offence and may liable to a prison sentence.

“If you have information as to Suika’s whereabouts please call Hampshire Constabulary on 101, in confidence, and quote Operation Windless.” Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and leave information anonymously.

Crimestoppers is offering a £10,000 reward for information leading the arrest and conviction of the persons responsible for Michael’s death.