Croydon murder detectives given extra time to quiz pair after human remains found in park

Police have carried out searches of Rowdown Fields in New Addington (PA Wire)
Police have carried out searches of Rowdown Fields in New Addington (PA Wire)

Detectives have been granted extra time to quiz two people arrested on suspicion of murder after human remains were found in a south London park.

The gruesome discovery was made in Rowdown Fields in New Addington, Croydon, last Tuesday.

A 44-year old man and a woman, 48, were detained on Saturday and remain in custody.

The Metropolitan Police said warrants for further detention were granted.

A post-mortem examination took place on Sunday but the force could still not reveal the gender, age or ethnicity of the victim.

Detective Inspector Martin Thorpe, leading the Specialist Crime Command investigation, said the remains are those of one person, but cannot yet be formally identified.

He added: “I understand the significant concern this discovery will have caused to local people, and I want to thank the community for their patience.

“I can confirm our work at the location is complete and we believe that the remains found are those of one person.

“Although we are unable to formally identify the victim at this time, my team are working around the clock in order to do so. Their inquiries have made significant progress and I will provide a further update as soon as possible.

“We remain in contact with partners and local community members. I am grateful to them for their support.”