THREE Police officers who crossed international borders to travel to China in the hunt for murder suspect Anxiang Du have returned back to England. Senior investigator in the case Detective Chief Inspector Tom Davies, together with two other detectives, returned to Northamptonshire on Wednesday 4th April having travelled out to China on Sunday 25th March.

Although officers had remained in close contact with the Chinese authorities throughout the investigation into the murders of the Ding family in April 2011, it was anticipated that the personal visit would allow officers to speak with associates of Mr Du for any information they may have in identifying people who could have assisted him in his escape.

Detective Chief Inspector Tom Davies, leading the investigation, said: “During our visit we were supported by the Chinese Ministry of Public Security, having first briefed them in the city of Beijing. This ensured that the Chinese law enforcement were fully aware of the investigation, its aims and the purpose of the visit to China.

“With their support we went on to speak to a number of individuals in different regions of China before meeting the family of the victims in the city of Hangzhou.

The family were grateful for the ongoing work in this case and remain supportive of the investigation as we move forward. This meeting also provided us with the opportunity to pass on our deepest sympathies for their loss, in person.

The result of the trip to China was very positive and it allowed us to ensure that the Chinese Law enforcement agencies are fully aware and pro-active in assisting us in the search for Anxiang Du. We will maintain ongoing liaison with Chinese law enforcement as the investigation continues.

We still have a number of positive enquiries that we are following, but strongly believe that there are people out there with information on the whereabouts of Mr Du and we need those people to come forward. Either direct to the police or anonymously through Crimestoppers.”