AN INVESTIGATION has been launched following the death of a man in “suspicious circumstances”.

Initial enquiries into the death of a man found unresponsive in an alleyway at the end of Shelbourne Road indicated it was not suspicious.

However, detectives have since found the man’s bank cards were used after he died.

Dorset Police received a report at 3.13pm on Friday, January 14 from the ambulance service that a man had been found unresponsive.

Officers attended with the ambulance service and the man, aged in his 50s, was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin has been informed.

Detective Sergeant Stefanie Belton, of Bournemouth CID, said: “We are carrying out a detailed investigation to establish the full circumstances of this death and I am appealing for anyone with information that might assist our enquiries to please come forward.

“I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area of the alleyway, which runs alongside the A338 Wessex Way between Shelbourne Road and Malmesbury Park Road, on the afternoon of Friday, January 14.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/do-it/online, via email to 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220007070.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.