More arrests in Michael Freshwater murder probe as drug links tighten
Detectives have made fresh arrests in the hunt for Michael Freshwater’s killer. Today (Tuesday, May 3), a 24-year-old Southampton man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply class A drugs. He remains in police custody.
Michael’s body found in Southampton flat
Michael was discovered dead at a Westridge Road address just after 4.15pm on Friday, April 29. Since then, multiple arrests have shaken the city.
- A 22-year-old Southampton man was arrested on Monday, May 2, suspected of assisting an offender and conspiracy to supply class A drugs.
- A 43-year-old Southampton man was also arrested on Monday for conspiracy to supply class A drugs, but bailed until July 5.
- Ashton Singh, 26, from Westridge Road, appeared at Southampton Magistrates this morning charged with perverting the course of justice. He’s been remanded in custody.
- A separate 26-year-old man arrested for murder on Saturday, April 30, has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Police zero in on drugs as motive
Detective Chief Inspector Nick Heelan said: “This remains an active murder investigation and we continue to encourage anyone who can assist us with our enquiries to come forward.”
He added: “We have arrested a number of people, some still in custody. We’re throwing significant resources at uncovering the exact circumstances leading to Michael’s death. Every lead is being followed.”
Heelan revealed drug links are high on police radar: “While we’re exploring all angles, we strongly suspect this incident is drug-related.”
Police urge public to speak up
Anyone with information is urged to contact police immediately. Call 101 and quote Operation Windless, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
“Please come and speak to us, in confidence, and tell us what you know,” said the police.
