Three teenagers have been arrested following the death of Gurmail Singh, who was hit over the head repeatedly during a robbery at his shop, Cowcliffe Convenience Store in Cowcliffe on Saturday night.
The teenagers (an 18-year-old and two 17-year-olds) are also being questioned about a robbery at the same store three days before.
Detective superintendent Dave Pervin, who is leading the investigation, said: “These men have been arrested as a result of the tremendous public response to my earlier appeals for information.
“Forensic examinations of the scene and of articles discarded by those responsible when fleeing the scene have been extremely thorough and painstaking.
“We were able to fast track forensic evidence and have now moved into a phase of the investigation where we have commenced enquiries to locate, question and eliminate or arrest potential suspects.
“Although we have made these very recent arrests I must stress that it is not known at this time if those arrested were involved in either the murder or the earlier robbery. At this stage no charges have been brought – I will give a further update as things develop.
“Anyone who has any information or suspicions that will assist in the investigation should continue to contact the police and share that information.
“I am also keen to hear from anyone that has private CCTV installed and operating in the area. I would ask that if they have that they preserve any recordings from February 18 through to February 22 and contact the investigation team to let us know.
If anyone has information which could further assist officers in the investigation or which could help to identify those responsible, call 0845 6060606 or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111 or text 07786200805.
