Police near end of bomb-site probe

Press, 27 February 1986, Page 4

Police near end of bomb-site probe

The police examination of the Sockbum truck depot where Mr Denis Drinkwater was killed in an explosion nine days ago has almost finished. Detective Inspector David Haslett, who heads the homicide investigation, said that he expected the police to finish at the Mogal Bin Services depot in Waterloo Road by the end of the week.

Pieces of an explosive device, bits of a truck, and other debris were thrown more than 100 m in the blast, which happened about 6.30 a.m. on February 18. The police say that they believe the bomb was intended for Mr Drinkwater, aged 40, who was a truck-driver.

A pain staking search of the yard where Mr Drinkwater died has since been made by the police.

Mr Haslett said that the search had proved worth while. He declined to comment further. Extensive scientific

examination was being made of items found at the yard. Explosives experts in the D.S.I.R. and the Labour Department are making the examinations.

“The police will still not comment on the exact nature of the explosive device, as scientific examination is continuing,” said Mr Haslett. He again declined to comment on the motive for the killing of Mr Drinkwater.

The dumping on the Port Hills on Monday evening of a car linked with the inquiry had generated much response from the public, said Mr Haslett. “It is excellent — we are delighted with the response.” The police would still like to hear from anyone who saw the red 1968 Vauxhall Victor before it was set on fire and pushed from the Summit Road. ' .

The car was reported

stolen from Blenheim Road on February 17. The police still want the owner of another vehicle to get in touch with them. The car, believed to be a dark-coloured Holden Premier, was seen near the Mogal depot about 10.45 p.m. on February 17, the evening before the explosion.