Police have today been searching the lake in St George Park and Avonview Cemetery today as concerns grow for missing local girl Becky Watts.
Detective Superintendent Liz Tunks, head of the Major Crime Investigation Unit, has taken over as the senior investigating officer in the case while Detective Inspector Richard Ocone, who had been leading the investigation, is working closely with her.
DI Ocone said: “We are still treating this investigation as a missing person inquiry and we are committed to finding Becky and returning her home, but we need to cover every eventuality.
“The local community will see an increased policing presence as the investigation enters its second week, including additional specialist search officers from neighbouring forces drafted in to assist us.
“We are carrying out a detailed forensic search of Becky’s home where she was last seen to make sure there is nothing we have missed, and intensifying our search of the local area so no stone is left unturned.
“I would still appeal to anyone who may have information who has not yet spoken to us to do so immediately on 101 or through the online form on our website.
“We will continue to push hard on our social media campaign and I ask everyone on Twitter to get behind our #FindBecky
“Finally, I would like to thank the members of the public who have already come forward and given us information regarding this investigation.”
Police say the searches at the pond are a routine part of any high risk missing person investigation and not based on any specific intelligence.
Meanwhile extensive house-to house inquiries in the local area are continuing.
Rebecca, 16, has not been since last Thursday 19th February when she was at her home address on Crown Hill.
Anyone with information should call 101 or 999. Alternatively, information can be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
