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.
Following the arrest of 27-year-old labourer Darren Davies on suspicion of Stephen's murder, Luke Knight's mother Pamela and Gary Dobson's mother Pauline welcomed the news of the progress.
The Eltham families are hoping the new arrest will prompt an end to speculation over their son's involvement in the police's inquiry, 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 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 50 rounds of 9mm ammunition found at his mother's home, before releasing him on bail to reappear on January 14.
Knight and Dobson were two of the five men originally accused of stabbing the eighteen-year-old student at a bus stop in Well Hall Road, Eltham, in April 1993. The case collapsed after the judge questioned police evidence.
December 7, 2001 9:44
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article