New hope over Damilola

Scotland Yard has ordered a new investigation into the Damilola Taylor murder.

Scientists will use new forensic techniques to scrutinise items found at the scene of the killing, raising fresh hopes of a breakthrough in the case.

Detectives are investigating potential fresh suspects in the case of the unsolved murder of the 10-year-old, using new technology to enhance pictures from CCTV cameras.

Last year four teenagers were cleared of the murder of Damilola, who bled to death on a Peckham estate in November 2000 after being stabbed in the thigh.

The prosecution case collapsed at the Old Bailey after the star witness, a 14-year-old girl known as Bromley, was discredited as a liar.

The Government's plans to abolish the 800-year-old double jeopardy rule could open the way for any of the original suspects to face a second trial if significant new evidence came to light.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir John Stevens said the case would be reviewed if double jeopardy was scrapped.

Today, on the third anniversary of Damilola's death, the detective newly in charge of the inquiry spoke for the first time of the continuing hunt for the killers, and of how he is "optimistic" of a breakthrough. Detective Chief Inspector Nick Ephgrave said: "We are looking at the evidence with fresh eyes.

"One of the major lines of inquiry is the review of the forensic evidence. We have called in an independent company which will use up-to-the-minute technology to scrutinise the exhibits.

"The original forensic tests were carried out three years ago and scientific techniques have moved on since then."

The new examination of the evidence will involve putting the testimony of Bromley to one side and examining the case as if she did not exist.

She named four youths she claimed she witnessed attacking Damilola in Blakes Road. The original police inquiry focused on these four but the new approach opens the way for further possible suspects to be considered.

Detectives are also reinterviewing possible witnesses in the area and using the latest technology to examine mobile phone evidence.

Detective Chief Superintendent Tony Crofts, the head of murder investigation in south London, said: "The investigation has never ceased. We are as determined now as we were when we started to find the answer for the Taylor family, and for society at large.

"We will keep digging and digging. I know there are people who know the truth about this murder."

Anyone with information should ring 020 8247 4567, or ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.