Police say 10, not three men have been arrested in connection with the Muswell Hill beat bobby’s murder

POLICE investigating the murder of Muswell Hill beat officer PC Blakelock have announced that a further seven men have been arrested this year, on the 25th anniversary of his death.

Previously Met officer investigating PC Blakelock’s murder at the Broadwater Farm riots on October 6, 1985, had only released details of three arrests.

But as police this morning prepare to gather at a memorial ceremony at Muswell Hill Broadway on the anniversary of his murder, officer say that a total of 10 suspects were in fact arrested this year.

PC Blakelock was one of the first officers called to Broadwater Farm and, together with his colleague PC Richard Coombes, attempted to protect several fire fighters who had been targeted by rioters. As the violence escalated officers retreated but PC Blakelock stumbled and was murdered by a gang during angry clashes on the Tottenham estate.

Officers say they are encouraged by the new information received and are starting to build a clearer picture of some of the events which occurred that night.

But the add it is important to reiterate that further information is still needed and officers can take extreme measures to respect individual confidentiality.

Leading the murder enquiry, Detective Superintendent John Sweeney today said: “I know for certain that there are people out there with vital information who could help us provide those answers. If you are one of those people, I ask you to please come forward.

“If you were there and saw what happened, if you have heard people talking about their part in the killing, any piece of information, large or small, could prove essential to our investigation.

“25 years is a long time and circumstances do change - relationships may come to an end, individuals and families can move house and children grow up. If you were 18 years old at the time you will be 43 years old now.

“We fully recognise that there are people who, for very valid reasons at the time, felt unable to come forward. I urge you to now reconsider your position and get in touch. All information will be handled in the strictest of confidence and we will assess and address any of the concerns you may have.

“The re-investigation is very much on-going and we have made a number of significant steps forward in recent years, but we need the help of the public to ensure that all those who attacked Keith with weapons are held accountable for their actions.

“The 6th October 1985 was an extremely sad day in the history of policing and no police officer serving at the time will ever forget it. Today’s memorial ceremony is a reminder of the brutal and tragic events experienced by the officers of Serial 502 that day. I am determined to establish the truth so that everyone affected can draw a line and finally move on.

“We can only imagine the pain the Blakelock family must feel from losing a loved one in such devastating circumstances. Receiving no answers for 25 years can only add to their sadness and frustration. It is incredibly important they are given the answers and closure that they yearn for and deserve.”

Anyone with information should contact the incident room in confidence on 020 8733 4613 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.