Human remains found wrapped in plastic at nature reserve belong to man aged around 40, police say

Officers from the Major Incident Team have been working in tandem with local investigators from Salford.

Forensics units, search teams and a dog unit have also been tasked with investigating the incident.

Further details about the human remains are not yet known, Greater Manchester Police has claimed.

However, forensic examinations yesterday afternoon determined the victim is a man, aged over 40 who died a few days before.

Enquiries are ongoing to help try to identify him, including DNA tests

Chief Superintendent Tony Creely, district commander for Salford, said: “This is a tragic case which is moving at pace and, thanks to forensic tests, we are able to confirm that the victim is a man who could not have survived.

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“At the heart of our investigation is this man and his family.

“We are using all forensic techniques available to identify him as soon as we can so we are able to support his loved ones during this devastating time.

“I would like to thank the public for their cooperation in the last few days.

“The presence of our officers and specialist teams will have caused disruption in the local area – and may continue to for some time yet – but we value any information they have been able to pass to us.

“There remain a number of unknowns around this case, but we are working diligently and respectfully to provide answers as soon as we are able.

“This will take time and we will continue to provide updates of significance when we can.”

People with information about the human remains have been urged to call 101 and quoting log number 2695 of 4 April 2024.

Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.