DCI Ricky Harkness appeals for information about the suspicious deaths of three women in Co Down

THE detective heading up the probe into the deaths of three women has appealed for public help.

Chief Inspector Ricky Harkness believes someone in the village of Dromore, Co Down may know something about the deaths stretching back over 11 years.

Now he wants them to come forward with the information which could solve the riddle of the women’s deaths.

On Tuesday morning, detectives from the PSNI’s Major Investigation Team arrested a 66-year-old man in Dromore.

The suspect was then whisked by police car to the Serious Crime Suite in Antrim to quizzed.

The three women who died were:

* Michelle Bickerstaff, aged 47, who died in April 2012;

* 50-year-old Margaret Weise, who died in August 2007;

* and Elizabeth McKee, aged 52 who died in December 2002.

The suspect had been arrested previously over the death of Michelle Bickerstaff but had been released unconditionally.

It has been revealed the pensioner has also been arrested for a number of other offences in relation to other women.

Said DCI Ricky Harkness: “We are keen to speak with anyone who may have any information which could assist us and I would urge members of the community in Dromore to contact us.

“People may have been reluctant to come forward in the past but I can assure you that any information given to the police will be treated in the utmost confidence.

“Your information could provide us with the vital link to enable us to bring this investigation to a successful conclusion.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the MIT squad on 0845 600 8000.