POLICE investigating the murder of a North-East takeaway boss have reported “a good response” to the release of cctv footage of the potential killers fleeing the scene.

Tipu Sultan was shot from close range at the rear of the Herbs n Spice Kitchen premises, in South Shields, shortly before 10pm on Tuesday (April 7).

Police and paramedics were called to the scene, in Lake Avenue, Marsden, but 32-year-old father-of-two, from Millfield, Sunderland, was confirmed dead, from a single gunshot wound.

Two men on a motorbike were seen entering the rear lane in Lake Avenue just before the incident and were subsequently observed driving away, immediately after the shooting.

Officers investigating the murder believe that the two men were responsible for the murder of Mr Sultan and inquiries were continuing over the weekend to try to identify and locate the pair.

Closed circuit cameras in the vicinity captured the motorbike with the rider and pillion passenger, both wearing crash helmets, heading along nearby Lizard Lane, moments after the shooting.

They left the area, travelling towards Whitburn and Sunderland.

The cctv images were released by police investigation team on Friday (April 10).

Detectives have said it has brought a healthy response, with a high number of calls from the public who have seen the footage in the media.

The senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector John Bent, said: “We’ve had a very positive response from this latest appeal with several calls from members of the public which we are now progressing.

“We have a team of officers who are following up all calls we receive and we’d still appeal for anyone who thinks they may have information about the motorbike or the two men to come forward and speak to officers.”

Officers have also been carrying out other inquiries in the area, including searches at locations along the route where the motorbike was seen to leave the area.

Among the locations visited was Whitburn Golf Club, on Lizard Lane.

Police who have examined the cctv footage closely believe they can gauge the size and shape of the motorcycle, which is thought to be a large red superbike, or performance-style machine.

They have urged anyone who saw the men or the motorbike to contact them, as soon as possible, on 101, extension 69191, quoting reference number 1255 07/04/15.

Information can also be passed anonymously, by ringing Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.