POLICE have been unable to establish the identity of a murder victim whose partial remains were found in Boscombe.

Detectives will continue searching the area off Boscombe Overcliff Drive in the coming days following the discovery of partial human remains near the Manor Steps Zig Zag.

While police have been unable to confirm further details about the remains found, they said identification has yet not been possible and would likely “take some time”.

The cordon remains in place and officers from the Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) are continuing with a large number of enquiries including CCTV and house-to-house enquiries.

Detective Inspector Neil Third, of MCIT, said: “Our searches are likely to continue for some days as the terrain at the location is very challenging.

Bournemouth Echo: A forensics officer from Dorset Police in Boscombe Overcliff DriveA forensics officer from Dorset Police in Boscombe Overcliff Drive (Image: Daily Echo)

“We appreciate that this has an impact on members of the public in the area and I am grateful for everyone’s patience as we need to ensure that the whole area is searched extensively.

“I am not in a position to go into any further details about the remains that have been found – only that they are partial human remains. However, I am confident that we are treating this as a murder investigation.

“So far, it has not been possible to identify the victim or their gender. It is likely to take some time to establish any possible details.

“A vast number of enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the death, including looking at CCTV and house-to-house enquiries.

“I would like to renew my appeal to anyone with any information regarding this matter, or who has seen any suspicious activity around the area of the Manor Steps Zig Zag in Boscombe in recent days, to please inform police.

“Any information, images or other material can be uploaded to the Major Incident Public Portal that has been set up.

“There will continue to be an increased police presence in the area and officers can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns.”

As reported, Dorset Police was alerted at 1.10pm on Saturday, August 26, after a member of the public discovered the remains.

Anyone with information is asked to submit it to the investigation team via the Major Incident Public Portal page at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/55HQ23M99-PO1.

If unable to submit information online, call 101 quoting occurrence number 55230135228.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.