Police: Michaela murder case evidence is 'circumstantial'
Mauritius Police Commissioner Dhun Rampersad has revealed that the evidence against the three suspect in the Michaela McAreavey murder case is circumstantial.
“They have not confessed but we have circumstantial sort of evidence but we are trying to find some other evidence to link them to the charge,” he said.
He said the use of a key card to open the couple’s bedroom door was critical to the case.
“Not all people have access to these cards,” he said.
The police chief also confirmed that Mrs McAreavey may have tried to fight off her attacker.
“There is some signs, indications, that she might have struggled. From what we have obtained from her nails, the collections we have obtained from her nails, it looks like there may have been some struggle,” he said.
He said officers identified the suspects by checking who had access to the ground floor of the hotel and the rooms on that level.
“I suspect the guy was in trying to rob and the lady caught him red-handed. I’m just guessing,” the Commissioner told RTE Radio.
“I’m saying we have a very open mind. There may have been some other guy who did the job,” he said.
It is hoped a trial will take place within six months.
Mr Rampersad said investigating officers would prefer Mr McAreavey to stay on the island for a few more days, until early next week, to help with the inquiry.
