Worthing police officer murder: Investigators carry out huge search across South East

A huge search has been conducted as part of an investigation into the murder of a police officer from Worthing last week.
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Sergeant Matt Ratana, who was from Goring, was fatally shot by a man under arrest in a Croydon custody suite in the early hours of Friday morning (September 25).

The suspect then turned the gun on himself, according to the Metropolitan Police, and remains in hospital in a critical condition.

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The investigation into Sgt Ratana's death has now spread to addresses in Southbrook Road, Norbury, and Park Road in Banstead, Surrey.

Sgt Matt Ratana receiving a long and good service medal from the Commissioner Cressida Dick on 31 May 2017Sgt Matt Ratana receiving a long and good service medal from the Commissioner Cressida Dick on 31 May 2017
Sgt Matt Ratana receiving a long and good service medal from the Commissioner Cressida Dick on 31 May 2017

According to the Met Police, the Park Road location includes several derelict buildings and more than 30 acres of land, which is expected to take days to complete.

London Road in Pollards Hill, South London - where the suspect was originally arrested - has also been searched and the Met Police said a further search was carried out in central London.

Croydon Custody Centre, in Windmill Lane, remains a crime scene.

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Officers have been unable to question the shooter due to his critical condition.

A second suspect was arrested on Sunday (September 27) in Norwich on suspicion of supplying a firearm. He remains in custody at a South London police station.

The Met Police said the inquiry is not a counter-terrorism investigation and is being led by specialist detectives.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy, responsible for the investigation, said: “It is four days since the murder of our colleague and our work continues at a high tempo.

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“We have traced a number of witnesses who have been able to contribute significant information about the events leading up to the shooting.

“We continue to pursue multiple lines of inquiry and consider the results of initial forensic examinations, including of the gun recovered from custody.

“The murder of Sgt Ratana sent shockwaves through the Metropolitan Police Service. Nevertheless his colleagues are determined to find justice for him and his family.

“One of my priorities remains to ensure that any future prosecution is not jeopardised and I would again highlight that speculation over what took place on Friday is unhelpful.

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“I would like to thank everyone for their continued support which I know has buoyed colleagues at this extremely dark time.”

A number of officers are providing statements as witnesses as part of the post incident procedure. This process is being undertaken jointly with the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

The Met Police said it will take some time to conclude.