Murder probe police end river search
POLICE have concluded a search around the River Exe connected to the Lorraine Cox murder investigation.
On Sunday, a number of police officers, vehicles and a tent were spotted along a patch of land which sits between Exwick playing fields and Bonhay Road. Police dogs and a drone were also seen.
Officers at the time confirmed the activity was linked to the investigation regarding the 32-year-old woman’s death.
Azum Rasul Mohammed Mangori, also known as Christopher Mayer, has been charged with the murder of Ms Cox between August 30 and September 9 last year. He is further accused of the prevention of lawful and decent burial between the same dates. Mangori, aged 23, of no fixed abode, denies both charges and is due to stand trial at Exeter Crown Court on March 1.
Devon and Cornwall Police have since confirmed that their searches concluded on Sunday afternoon last weekend.
They have also urged people not to speculate on the investigation due to the upcoming trial.
“These searches were concluded on the afternoon of Sunday, 3 January,” said a spokesperson.
“We remind members of the public that, with a trial at Exeter Crown court due to take place in March, this is a live and active case and we ask people not to speculate on social media.
“Beyond the above, we have no further comment.”
Police launched a murder probe on September 9, closing off Mary Arches Street in Exeter city centre and erecting forensic tents.
The investigation centred around the back of Bodrum Kebab House, which is located on the corner of Fore Street and Mary
Arches Street. Police retained a presence on the street for several weeks and also conducted searches at several other locations in and around the city. On September 29, police confirmed a body found in Exeter was that of Ms Cox.
An inquest into her death was opened and adjourned by HM Coroner, Exeter, while the criminal process continued.