Moors murders: police confirm outcome of search for Keith Bennett on Saddleworth moor

Greater Manchester police say they have as yet found ‘no evidence’ of human remains following five days of excavation on Saddleworth moor.

Officers acting on a tip-off by an author who has been looking for the burial site of Keith Bennett have been carrying out a ‘meticulous’ search of the area since Friday.

Keith was 12 years old when he went missing in Longsight in 1964. Moors murderers Ian Brady and Myra Hindley were later convicted of killing him and four other young people but his remains have never been found.

GMP tonight (4 October) said they had sent extra resources to assist with the ongoing search but had so far found nothing of note.

Samples obtained by author Russell Edwards have been sent by GMP to accredited experts for analysis, which is ongoing.

What have police said?

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Cheryl Hughes, of GMP’s Force Review Unit, said: “Forensic Archaeologists and Forensic Anthropologists have now completed a methodical archaeological excavation and examination of the area previously dug and refilled by the member of the public. No bones, fabric or items of interest were recovered from the soil.

“These accredited and certified forensic experts are now continuing with a methodical and controlled excavation of the area immediately surrounding the original site to provide a higher level of assurance of the presence or absence of any items of interest. Further soil samples have been taken for analysis, but at this time there is no visible evidence to suggest the presence of human remains. The scene examination is ongoing.

“A report of possible human remains is always treated with seriousness. As such, we have deployed police search advisors who can support our scenes of crimes officers – this will result in more visible and high profile tactics, such as officers walking in lines to identify any potential sites of focus.

“GMP is committed to providing Keith’s family with answers following this report, both from the physical excavation and subsequent analysis of his will takea some time but we will keep the family updated at every stage and request that their privacy is respected.

“We have seen the outpouring of support since this news broke so know how our communities feel about this case but we are asking members of the public not to travel to the area and can assure them that we will provide timely and appropriate updates.”