Dorset murder probe: two arrested as body parts discovered

Police launched a murder investigation following the discovery of the remains in Manor Steps zig zag, off Boscombe Overcliff Drive, on Saturday, August 26.

Late on Friday night, Dorset Police confirmed it had identified who the body parts belong to.

It confirmed they were those of a 49-year-old Bournemouth man.

A 38-year-old woman and a 48-year-old man – both from Bournemouth – have also been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Detective Inspector Neil Third, of the major crime investigations team, said: “This remains a very complex investigation and we have worked tirelessly since the initial discovery and report to progress our enquiries.

“Foremost, our thoughts are with the victim’s family. We will continue to do all we can to establish the circumstances of the death."

A major cordon was in place along the cliff top since a walker made the discovery and a huge investigation was launched.

In the days that followed, police scoured the area with dogs, a specialist search team and forensics.

That cordon was taken down on Friday, August 1.

Police and forensics are currently at an abandoned hotel in Manor Road carrying out enquiries in relation to the murder investigation.

DI Third added that thanks to advances in the investigation, he has been able to narrow down his appeal for information on suspicious activity in the Manor Steps area between Monday, July 31 and Saturday, August 26.

“I would ask anyone with information, images or other material to please upload it to the Major Incident Public Portal that has been set up," he said.

“A number of cordons have been put in place across the Boscombe area and I would like to thank the public for their assistance while officers conduct their detailed enquiries. Officers can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns.”

A specialist search team and police dogs were seen at the old and derelict Mon Bijou hotel in Manor Road.

Forensics were seen there the day before entering the building and examining the area. It is unclear exactly what police have discovered in the building.

Anyone with information is asked to submit it to the investigation team via the Major Incident Public Portal page at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/55HQ23M99-PO1.

If you are unable to submit information online, please call 101 quoting occurrence number 55230135228.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.