Murder probe as human remains found near holiday hotspot cliff path

27 August 2023 , 11:37

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A cordon has been erected at the scene while officers investigate (Image: BournemouthEcho/BNPS)

Police have launched a murder probe after human remains were discovered off a cliff-side path in Bournemouth.

The "partial" remains were found by a member of the public near the Manor Steps Zig Zag, off Boscombe Overcliff Drive in Dorset yesterday. Police are appealing for information about the circumstances of the death, which they are treating as suspicious.

The deceased person has not yet been identified, said the force. A cordon has been erected at the scene while officers investigate and there will be an increased police presence in the area, it added. A spokesman for Dorset Police said: "Detectives have launched a murder investigation following the discovery of partial human remains in Boscombe.

Forensic teams carrying out investigations in the area (BournemouthEcho/BNPS)

"Dorset Police received a report at 1.10pm on Saturday August 26, 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 attended and a cordon was put in place as inquiries were carried out. An investigation was subsequently launched by the major crime investigation team (MCIT)." Detective Inspector Neil Third urged anyone with further information to get in touch with the force.

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Police seen searching a large area of the Boscombe clifftops (BournemouthEcho/BNPS)

He said: "We are treating this as a murder investigation and our inquiries are ongoing to establish the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding their death. I am appealing 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.

"A cordon remains in place at the scene while further detailed inquiries are conducted and I would like to thank members of the public for their patience and understanding while this is in place. There will continue to be an increased police presence in the vicinity and officers can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns."

Anyone with information is urged to contact the force's investigation team via the Major Incident Public Portal page here or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230135228. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online or by phoning 0800 555 111.

Katie Weston