Mikus Alps: where is the investigation now?

Friday 25 May 2018

At the start of the year, on Monday 8 January, the bones of a man were found in a burnt out car at Petit Bot.

In the weeks that followed, speculation went wild as to how a man on the island of Guernsey died in a burning car, with a shotgun found in the boot.

And while the whole truth is still not known, Guernsey Police issued an update on Friday 25 May, into where they have got to with resolving the case.

"Following an inconclusive forensic examination carried out in the UK on 13 February, it was agreed that further tests were required to try and help determine cause of death. Due to the nature of the remains there are very few experts in the UK who can carry out the required additional examination," Police Chief Office Patrick Rice said. 

"However, this examination has now been carried out and we are awaiting a report with the findings. It is unlikely we will receive this information before the end of June," he continued.

"I am acutely aware of the desire for further updates and information, however organising forensic examinations of this nature and receiving the findings can be a lengthy process and we are reliant on colleagues in the UK to carry out the specialist work needed."

When the discovery of Mr Alps' body parts was announced, the world's media looked on, as a wildfire of speculation ignited over his involvements both fighting in the Ukraine and also here over his lifestyle in Guernsey.

First, forensic investigations confirmed it was human bones found in the car, then a letter was handed into the police with a "sombre and reflective" content. That was later confirmed to have been written by Mr Alps by hand writing experts.

But while some, including national media, said Mr Alps was murdered; whether by Russians, Ukrainians or a local, the case has still not been closed. That could change when this forensic report is received. 

"I think there is merit in again confirming some of the salient facts in relation to this case. The investigation has so far established that the remains found in the vehicle in January were that of Mikus Alps. A handwriting expert confirmed that a letter handed into police, which was sombre and reflective in content, was written by Mr Alps," Chief Officer Rice added.

"Mr Alps was a supporter of a pro-Ukrainian movement and had visited the country. We are aware that Mr Alps’ Facebook account has been active since his remains were found; it is not uncommon for people to share their social media log-in details with others.

"There is no evidence linking Mr Alps’ activity in Ukraine with his remains being found in a burnt-out car in Guernsey.  Investigating officers continue to have an open mind pending further forensic results."

To read the full story of Mikus Alps so far, reported as it broke, click here.