Officers investigating the murder of Ernest Deputat in Southampton have confirmed that two people were arrested on Monday, February 16.
The arrests were made separately in Bradford and London, and both suspects have since been transferred to Southampton, where they remain in custody.
A spokesperson for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said: “Our investigation into 45-year-old Ernest’s death continues, and we remain keen to hear from anyone who has information which could help provide his family with answers about what happened.”
Ernest’s body was found on Wednesday, October 8, in woodland on Southampton Common by a member of the public, close to the wildlife reserve just north of the Ornamental Lake.
Police previously said there was evidence of a fire at the scene.
Image of the crime scene (Image: Cristiano Magaglio)
On Monday, a 30-year-old man was arrested in Bradford, West Yorks, and a 34-year-old man was arrested in Newham, London. Both were arrested on suspicion of murder.
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Gillooly, who is leading the investigation, said: “These arrests are an important step in our work to provide answers to Ernest’s family and to the community about what happened to him, but we still need to hear from anyone who might have information which could assist us.
“We have undertaken a large-scale investigation since Ernest’s body was found in October, looking to understand his movements around the time of his death and his lifestyle.
“If you have any information, not only about his tragic death but about any aspect of Ernest’s life, then we want to hear from you. It may be vitally important to our investigation.”
Police at the scene (Image: Cristiano Magaglio)
Information can be provided by calling 101 or through Hampshire police’s website, quoting case reference 44250456238.
Information can also be given 100 per cent anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers, which is offering a £20,000 reward for information passed directly to them.
DCI Gillooly added: “I know that some people may not be comfortable coming directly to the police but will still have information which could be really important to our enquiries.
“Crimestoppers guarantee anonymity, allowing you to provide information to them without ever giving your personal details.
“I want to urge you to come forward to allow us to provide Ernest’s family with the answers they deserve.”