Police have kicked-off a search near the South Eastern Freeway in an attempt to discover an item of interest
The search for a cricket bat – police allege to be a crucial item in the investigation of an alleged murder in Para Vista – is underway as major crime investigation police kick-off operations to locate the item near the South Eastern Freeway.
Five people have been charged with various offences during the investigation which began following the discovery of a body at a property on Carousel Street, Para Vista on October 12, last year.
Detective Sergeant Paul Ward said the there were a number of members involved in the search and it was anticipated that the search would take the greater part of the day, if not more.
“Today Major crime detectives are assisted by STAR group members and State Emergency Service volunteers and there is an effort being made to locate that cricket bat, which may be within a 15 kilometre section of the SE freeway,” Detective Sergeant Paul Ward said.
Mr Ward said that any further information from the public in regards to the location of the bat was being sought to aid the search.
Mr Ward encouraged anyone with relevant information to contact Crime Stoppers.
“Police only became aware of the information very recently, as soon as we became aware of that steps were put in place to commence the search which occurred today (Tuesday),” Mr Ward said.
“We believe the cricket bat is significant piece of evidence related to the murder.
“We are hopeful (it is still out there)...like I said the murder occurred in October...so there is a possibility that it may have been collected in that time.”
There was no further information about the cricket bat, and its identifying characteristics, that could be disclosed.
Mr Ward also said he could not disclose where the information had come from but that it was from a credible source.
Police are urging anyone with any relevant information contact Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au.