Two men alleged to have assisted rape and murder suspect Michael Cope were arrested by police late last night.
The arrests bring the number of individuals under police questioning with regards to Linzi Ashton’s death up to three – a 25-year-old man was arrested on Monday.
The men, 26 and 27, are suspected of assisting an offender and are being questioned about the whereabouts of Ms Ashton’s ex-partner Michael Cope who is on the run.
Chief Superintendent Kevin Mulligan said: “We are continuing to do all we can to trace Michael Cope and urge him once again to hand himself into the police.
“We also reiterate our appeal to those who may have information on Cope’s whereabouts to speak to us in confidence.”
There is a £5,000 reward for anyone who has information leading to the arrest and conviction of 28-year-old Cope.
Cope, who has been sought by police since April over an alleged rape, is now wanted in connection with the murder of his ex-girlfriend Linzi Ashton, who was found dead at her home in Winton, on Saturday evening.
The previously said that they would take ‘a dim view’ of anyone attempting to aid Mr Cope.
Chief Superintendent Milligan added: “We are also working with our partner agencies to look at evicting anyone who is using their property to offer this man safety.”
Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 0161 856 5092 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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