Murder inquiry after kebab shop blast
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The discovery of a body in the remains of a kebab shop that blew up has prompted a murder inquiry, police said today.
The probe was launched after the man's body was found in rubble yesterday afternoon following the explosion at the shop in Leicester.
Emergency services called to the blast at the shop in Narborough Road at about 2.23am yesterday found the building demolished, and during clearance work yesterday afternoon, a body was found in the rubble at about 4.30pm.
Police today said a post-mortem examination has been carried out but they cannot reveal any further details about the man's identity until his family has been informed.
Two men and four women arrested in connection with the incident remained in police custody after officers got a warrant for further detention.
A police spokeswoman said several adjoining properties were evacuated as a safety precaution after the blast and the scene and surrounding area remains cordoned off for forensic examinations.
Detective Superintendent Mark Harrison, leading the investigation, said: "The investigation is in its early stages and officers have been in the area throughout the day making a number of inquiries.
"We are keen to piece together the circumstances that led to this incident and we would urge anyone who may have any information to please contact police.
"With it being a bank holiday there were a number of people leaving bars in nearby Braunstone Gate at around this time.
"There is a possibility someone making their way home or from a nearby property may have seen something which could be connected to what happened.
"We would urge anyone who has any information regarding the explosion or saw any suspicious activity in the immediate area to contact police immediately."
Anyone with any information should call Leicestershire Constabulary on 0116 222 2222.
Source: PA