Latest news: Two held over discovery of woman's severed head

Published on Friday 4 April 2008 10:22

TWO Lithuanian men have been arrested in connection with the discovery of a woman's severed head and hands on a beach.

The woman, whose remains were found on a beach in Arbroath, was today named as 35-year-old Jolanta Bledaite of Alytus, Lithuania.

Tayside Police said the men, aged 19 and 40, were taken into custody this morning but have not been charged.

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The victim was a migrant worker who lived in Brechin, Angus, and was reported missing by her employer.

The woman's father was told of her death today.

Police said that despite the arrests the investigation was continuing to establish the woman's last movements.

About 50 officers are working full-time on the inquiry and a forensic search of the property where she lived is due to resume this afternoon.

Officers will also carry out door-to-door inquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Graham McMillan, the officer in charge of the inquiry, said: "Whilst we have two men in custody, we will be working diligently to establish the full circumstances surrounding Jolanta's death.

"I'd like to hear from anyone who knew Jolanta, or anyone who had either seen or talked to her recently, to get in touch with us as they may have information that is crucial to our inquiry.

"Due to the large number of Eastern European migrant workers that we are speaking to during our inquiries, we have engaged the services of a number of interpreters to assist us.

"This is a tragic incident involving a 35-year-old woman, a woman who came to Scotland seeking a better life.

"As the senior investigating officer, I am determined to make sure that justice is served not only for Jolanta, but for her family too."

Tayside Police will continue to liaise closely with the Lithuanian authorities and a specially trained police family liaison officer has been appointed.