THE arrest of a new suspect in the Stephen Lawrence murder inquiry has prompted the mothers of two of the original suspects to speak out.

Luke Knight's mother, Pamela, and Gary Dobson's mother, Pauline, welcomed news of the arrest of 27-year-old labourer Darren Davies on suspicion of murder.

The Eltham families are hoping the new arrest will prompt an end to speculation over their sons' involvement in the police's inquiry.

The inquiry has been led by Metropolitan Police deputy assistant commissioner John Grieve.

On hearing the news Pamela Knight said: "I'm not surprised this has happened.

"Hopefully they have got the right man this time.

"And we hope, now, they will stop persecuting our sons."

Mrs Dobson added: "I have spoken to Gary and he said he was shocked.

"He has no idea who the person arrested is.

"This news has come out of the blue for all of us."

Police also questioned Mr Davies about 50 rounds of 9mm ammunition found at his mother's home in Eltham, before releasing him on bail to reappear on January 14.

Knight and Dobson were two of the five men originally accused of stabbing the 18-year-old student at a bus stop in Well Hall Road, Eltham, in April 1993.

The case subsequently collapsed after the judge questioned police evidence which was being presented.

December 10, 2001 13:07