Leicestershire Police have launched a major investigation involving extensive excavation work at a property in Leicester, following the disappearance of 60-year-old Gary Piatek. The probe has led to the arrest of 11 individuals on suspicion of murder, with nine currently remaining in police custody.
Ongoing Search Operation in Evington
A detailed search operation is being conducted at an address on Broad Avenue in the Evington area of Leicester. Police have deployed building machinery and specialised digging teams to thoroughly examine the site as part of their inquiries into Mr Piatek's whereabouts.
Authorities confirmed that Mr Piatek was last seen in April 2024, and there has been no proof of life since that time. Specialist support services are being provided to several of his close friends during this difficult period.
Police Statement on Investigation
In a statement issued on Thursday, Leicestershire Police indicated that significant police activity will continue at the Broad Avenue address over the coming days and weeks. This will involve specially trained search officers, crime scene investigators, and additional building machinery.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Michael Chandler, from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, stated: "We are continuing to establish the full circumstances of what has happened to Mr Piatek and as part of our ongoing enquiries, I am appealing to anyone who has any information in relation to him or in relation to what has happened to him to make contact with us."
Detective Inspector Chandler further clarified: "I will take this opportunity again to reiterate that this is not a Counter Terrorism policing operation and there is no connection to Counter Terrorism."
Details of Those Arrested
The individuals currently in police custody include six men aged 61, 43, 34, 33, 25 and 21, along with two women aged 34 and 29. All were arrested on suspicion of murder and remain detained while investigations continue.
A ninth person, a 50-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and also remains in police custody at this time.
Two additional men, aged 25 and 23, who were arrested on suspicion of murder have been released under investigation as inquiries progress. Meanwhile, a 23-year-old woman arrested for the same offence has been released from custody with no further action to be taken against her.
The police investigation continues to develop as forensic teams work meticulously at the Broad Avenue property, seeking evidence that might shed light on Mr Piatek's disappearance nearly two years ago. Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to come forward immediately.
