Martin Hamilton murder probe moves to Blackburn
Detectives investigating the murder of a man who was one of Scotland's most wanted criminals are carrying out inquiries in a town near where his remains were discovered.
Detectives investigating the murder of a man who was one of Scotland's most wanted criminals are carrying out inquiries in a town near where his remains were discovered.
Police believe Martin Hamilton could have been killed as far back as April, shortly after he was last seen alive.
The 53-year-old, who had been convicted of a number of crimes including drug dealing and torture, had been nicknamed the Blackhill Butcher, after the Glasgow housing estate where he operated from.
His remains were found by a dog walker in a remote area of woodland near the B7015 road in West Calder, West Lothian, last week.
A post-mortem examination established he had suffered serious injuries.
He was last seen alive at around lunchtime on April 16 in Glasgow's Great Western Road.
Police Scotland said officers are currently carrying out inquiries in the Mosside area of Blackburn, West Lothian.
Detective Superintendent Kenny Graham said: Whilst examinations and searches are ongoing near West Calder where Martin Hamilton's remains were found, we are now conducting further work in nearby Blackburn.
As the investigation has progressed we have identified this area of Blackburn as of interest, and I am keen to speak to anyone living or working here who may have any information which could assist.
As well as some search activity, officers will be carrying out extensive house-to-house inquiries and high-visibility patrols of the area.''
Hamilton had been hunted by police since September 2014 after he breached the terms of his licence following his release from prison.
A ÂŁ2,000 reward was offered for information on the ''dangerous'' convict's whereabouts last October.