Dorset Police news site

Detectives are continuing their murder investigation following the discovery of partial human remains in Boscombe and are renewing their appeal for information.

Dorset Police received a report at 1.10pm on Saturday 26 August 2023 following a discovery by a member of the public of suspected partial human remains in the area of the Manor Steps Zig Zag, off Boscombe Overcliff Drive.

Officers from the Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) are continuing with a large number of enquiries and searches at the location of where the remains were found are ongoing. A cordon at the site remains in place.

Detective Inspector Neil Third, of MCIT, said: “Our searches are likely to continue for some days as the terrain at the location is very challenging.

“We appreciate that this has an impact on members of the public in the area and I am grateful for everyone’s patience as we need to ensure that the whole area is searched extensively.

“I am not in a position to go into any further details about the remains that have been found – only that they are partial human remains. However, I am confident that we are treating this as a murder investigation.

“So far, it has not been possible to identify the victim or their gender. It is likely to take some time to establish any possible details.

“A vast number of enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the death, including looking at CCTV and house-to-house enquiries.

“I would like to renew my appeal to anyone with any information regarding this matter, or who has seen any suspicious activity around the area of the Manor Steps Zig Zag in Boscombe in recent days, to please inform police. Any information, images or other material can be uploaded to the Major Incident Public Portal that has been set up.

“There will continue to be an increased police presence in the area and officers can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns.”

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.