Third Man Arrested in Gaia Pope Murder Probe
Detectives investigating the disappearance of Swanage teen Gaia Pope have made a major breakthrough. A 49-year-old man from Swanage was arrested today, Thursday 16 November 2017, on suspicion of murder.
The suspect, reportedly known to Gaia, is now helping police with their enquiries.
Women’s Clothing Found Near Swanage
Earlier this morning at 10.28am, a member of the public stumbled across items of women’s clothing in a field north of the coastal path near Swanage. While the owner of the clothes has not been confirmed, detectives searching for Gaia have informed her family about the discovery.
Gaia, 19, from Langton Matravers, vanished on the afternoon of Tuesday 7 November 2017 while staying at an address in Swanage.
Massive Search Effort Underway
- Since Gaia’s disappearance, extensive searches have spanned land and coastline around Swanage.
- Dorset Search and Rescue, coastguard teams, NPAS helicopter, and specialist police units from neighbouring forces are all involved.
- On Monday 13 November, officers executed search warrants at two Swanage addresses; searches continue.
- Three vehicles have also been seized as part of the investigation.
Two Others Previously Arrested and Released
A 19-year-old man and a 71-year-old woman from Swanage, both known to Gaia, were earlier arrested on suspicion of murder. Both have since been released under investigation.
Call for Information
Police urge anyone with information to come forward immediately. Contact Dorset Police online at 123.
