TWO PEOPLE have been arrested by detectives trying to find a man suspected of a murder that stunned a Mossley neighbourhood.
But they are now focusing their search on the UK.
Greater Manchester officers are urgently seeking John Belfield after Thomas Campbell was killed at a house on Riverside.
Now a man and a woman have been taken into custody on suspicion of assisting an offender.
However, the force is still appealing for further information on the whereabouts of the 28-year-old, who hails from the Openshaw area of Manchester.
Detective Inspector Mark Davis, Senior Investigating Officer in the murder investigation, did reveal, however, they are focusing on these shores.
He said: “We continue to work relentlessly, and our work is still very much ongoing to trace Belfield and his associates.
“We have arrested a 59-year-old male and a 53-year-old female on suspicion of assisting an offender and I would like to remind people that this is a criminal offence and anyone convicted of this crime faces up to 10 years imprisonment.
“Again, we would like to reiterate that John Belfield is thought to be a dangerous individual and members of the public should call 999 if they see him.
“Through new lines of enquiry, we strongly believe that Belfield is still in the UK and may be being assisted by somebody.
“We are really appreciative of the information and support we have received from the public so far and encourage anyone who may be able to assist us further to please come forward, information can be given anonymously.”
Mr Campbell’s body was found by a neighbour at his home at about 10.40am on Saturday, July 3. It is believed Thomas was fatally assaulted the previous night and died from the injuries he sustained.
Greater Manchester Police has a dedicated online portal for anyone to submit images or video footage to help our ongoing inquiries https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP22G12-PO1.
Anyone with information should contact police, on 0161 856 6377, or by using GMP’s LiveChat facility at www.gmp.police.uk or alternatively Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.