Body in well ‘had been there for two years’

London Evening Standard/London

The body of a man found dead in a well was put there about two years ago, detectives said yesterday.

Police believe the victim was murdered and then his body was bound up “quite securely” before being dumped in the well.

Officers are still trying to identify the body, which was discovered by workmen at suburban home in Audley Drive, Warlingham, Surrey, on Friday.

Gardeners found the body beneath a tarpaulin in the 11 feet deep well while they were tidying the front garden of the property.

Experts including specialist forensic archaeologists are examining the body and water taken from the well and using new tests which measure radioactive isotopes in bones in an effort to pinpoint the victim’s age.

A post-mortem examination has revealed that the victim, who was white, had injuries consistent with an assault. He is believed to have suffered a number of injuries including broken bones but it has not been possible to identify the cause of death.

Detective chief inspector Cliff Lyons said officers were reviewing missing person reports to try to establish the victim’s identity. “The people who did this clearly believe they have got away with murder but as the days and hours go by we know more and more and we have made great progress.

“Given the complex nature of this investigation, it is likely that forensic work at the property will continue for a further month. This is someone’s son and my team owe it to him and his family to find out the truth and bring those who committed this atrocious act to justice.”

The well has been partly demolished and water taken away for examination.

Lyons said: “The water has lots of insect larvae, property that may have fallen into the well, skin deposits etc that may offer opportunities for forensics and for identification.”

Seven Polish men aged between 21 and 27 who were arrested and interviewed on suspicion of murder have been bailed to a date in December.