DETECTIVES investigating the murder of John Littlewood have this morning arrested five people in connection with the incident.

Three men who were previously detained on suspicion of murder on August 2 and released under investigation have been rearrested.

A further two women have also been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Two men, aged 29 and 30, and the two women, aged 35 and 44, were arrested in Blackhall Colliery. A 29-year-old man was arrested in Hartlepool.

They all remain in police custody.

The body of John – known as John D – was found in a house in Third Street, Blackhall Colliery, on July 30. He died as a result of head injuries.

A dedicated team of detectives, crime scene investigators, uniformed officers and other staff have been working on the investigation, which is being led by Detective Superintendent Kevin Weir.

“This morning’s arrests are a significant development in what has been a complex investigation,” he said.

“We will be carrying out searches at properties in the Blackhall Colliery and Hartlepool areas throughout the day in connection with the investigation. We will also be searching a property in the South Shields area.

“I would urge anyone who has any information which could help our enquiry, and has not already spoken to us, to speak to an officer on the ground or call us on 101.

“Information can also be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”