Body of baby exhumed in cold case probe

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The body of a baby girl who died nearly 16 years ago is being exhumed as part of a cold case investigation into her murder.

Kent Police are re-opening the inquiry into the death of baby "April", who was found by a couple walking alongside Singleton Lake in Ashford on April 3 1995.

The newborn, who was thought to have been born between March 26 and that day, was wrapped in a Kleenex toilet tissue bag inside a Motaworld carrier bag and weighed 7lb (3kg).

A post-mortem examination revealed she had died of asphyxiation.

A murder inquiry was launched but despite an extensive investigation completed by Kent Police at the time, the parents of the baby were not identified and no one has been held to account for her death.

Officers from Kent and Essex serious crime directorate's cold case team have sought authority from the coroner to have the body exhumed so that a forensic examination can be carried out to try to obtain a DNA profile of the baby.

They are also launching a renewed appeal for anyone with any information to contact them and appealed for the baby's mother to come forward.

Detective Inspector Dave Withers said: "It is important that we use advances in forensic technology to help us identify who the parents of this child are.

"We have exhumed the baby today for that purpose.

"We want to hear from anyone who may have information regarding baby April.

"We are particularly keen to appeal to the baby's mother. We want to hear from you and hear your side of the story.

"We understand you may be worried or frightened by what happened, you may have been a young girl at the time and you may not have been alone.

"I urge you to contact me, I have specially trained staff who you can speak to. They will listen to what you have to say and you will be dealt with sensitively and compassionately."

Anyone with information can call police on 01634 884044, or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.