Motorbike found in hunt for police helicopter arsonist

Detectives hunting an arsonist who set fire to a police helicopter have identified a motorcycle used in the attack.

The £4.3m aircraft, which was parked at Elmdon Airport in Birmingham, suffered "extensive damage" in the blaze on Monday.

Officers revealed today that they found the burnt-out remains of a yellow and white Suzuki DZR motorbike nearby.

Police believe it was used by the offender, who breached the perimeter fence at the airbase, near Sheldon, in the early hours of Monday. They released a picture of an identical motorbike.

Air cover was restored above the West Midlands within two hours of the incident but the helicopter played a key role in aerial surveillance and crime fighting, police said.

Chief Inspector Mark Payne, spokesman for West Midlands Police, said: "The helicopter had flown hundreds of missions, caught countless criminals and was a key tool in combating crime.

"This was a crime against the whole community."

He added: "We are talking to manufacturers, studying CCTV and that, combined with identifying the precise make of the bike so early, means we are making good progress.

"Now we need the public to play their part in casting their minds back to remember if they have seen this bike on its travels.

"Anyone with information is urged to call the investigation team on 0845 113 5000 or call the Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111."