Saddleworth Moor – continued search

The area of land around the primary scene is being searched by specialist officers and staff.

A meticulous examination of an initial area began last Friday (30 September 2022), after a member of the public researching the murder of Keith Bennett reported possible human remains.

Keith was 12-years-old when he went missing in 1964. He was one of five victims of Ian Brady and Myra Hindley – three of whom were found buried on Saddleworth Moor.

Samples obtained by the member of the public have been sent by GMP to accredited experts for analysis, which is ongoing.

Additional resources have been deployed to enable the completion of a more extensive examination of the area.

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 samples. This will take 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.”