Police use Bluetooth to reach derby fans in murder inquiry

Published on 14/03/2009 10:42

DETECTIVES investigating the murder of Martyn Barclay were today set to send Bluetooth mobile phone messages to fans attending the Edinburgh derby as part of a new appeal for information.

Officers will take a transmitter to Easter Road to beam messages straight to mobile phone users asking for information exactly two months after the 26-year-old Hibs fan was gunned down.

It is the first time in the force area that Bluetooth technology has been used in a murder appeal and police hope to reach thousands of Hibs and Hearts fans.

The move comes as a team of specialist officers continue to search woodlands opposite the Inch estate just 200 metres from where the father-of-one's body was found.

The team carried out a third day of searches for the murder weapon yesterday and the work is expected to continue into next week.

Since his murder, police have taken statements from around 750 members of the public and visited approximately 450 addresses during door-to-door inquiries.

The Bluetooth device was initially bought for 2000 to promote an anti-drink-driving message last Christmas and thousands of messages have been sent to revellers warning of the dangers since it was purchased.

But detectives quickly realised the device could be used to reach potential witnesses to serious crimes.

Officers will be able to send out texts to anyone around Easter Road during the match, urging them to contact police or call Crimestoppers.

A police spokesman said: "The public response to the appeal has been very encouraging, but we are always looking for ways to reach those who may have information that could assist us, especially in identifying those responsible for Martyn's death.

"It should not be forgotten that Martyn's death has robbed a young son of his father, and caused much heartache and suffering to his family.

"We remain absolutely determined to bring those responsible to justice, and we will continue to apply the significant resources at our disposal to make sure this happens."

A large area running from the entrance to the Craigmillar Community Recycling Centre, off Old Dalkeith Road, up towards Craigmillar Castle was sealed off on Wednesday for a search.

The operation was ordered by detectives probing a theory that the gunman may have disposed of the weapon shortly after shooting Mr Barclay in nearby Hazelwood Grove.

Police have refused to say if the search was carried out as a result of a tip-off, or following a n interview with a witness or suspect.