Four arrested over death of PC Andrew Harper

Three out of the four suspects were re-arrested. 

One of the men has been arrested for the first time after more evidence came to light.

It comes after around 100 officers carried out warrants on homes in Berkshire and Hampshire this morning.

The three who were first arrested on August 16 following the murder of PC Andrew Harper are two 17-year-old boys and an 18-year-old man - all from Reading. 

They were first arrested on August 16, the day after the incident, but were given bail until September 12. 

They were then re-bailed on November 16.

Today they were cuffed along with a 21-year-old from Basingstoke who has been arrested for the first-time in connection to the murder.

They are all being held in police custody.

Detective Superintendent Ailsa Kent, of the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit, said: “We are continuing to investigate the death of our colleague PC Andrew Harper, and today we have re-arrested three people in connection with this.

“In addition to these re-arrests, we have also arrested a further suspect, a 21-year-old man from Basingstoke.

“All four have been arrested on suspicion of murder and theft and are in our custody.

“This follows new evidence coming to light as the investigation has progressed in recent weeks.

“Members of the public might see an increased police presence at the locations of these warrants today. We appreciate the public’s patience and support while we progress these critical lines of enquiry.

“This is an ongoing, complex investigation, and we remain committed to achieving justice for PC Harper, his family, friends and colleagues.

“I would also like to reiterate our appeal for anyone who knows anything about this incident to come forward and talk to police, if you have not already done so."

20-year-old Jed Foster was charged with murder on August 19 and has been remanded in custody pending a trial after a hearing at Reading Crown Court on August 21.

Anybody with more information should call 101.