Southport murders condemned as 'most harrowing' investigation Merseyside Police ever seen

Investigating the Southport murders committed by Axel Rudakubana was the "most harrowing" large-scale investigation ever dealt with by Merseyside Police, the Senior Investigating Officer of the investigation concluded after the 18-year-old was sentenced on Thursday, 23 January.

Rudakubana is likely to die behind bars after receiving one of the highest minimum terms on record for the “sadistic” murders of three girls at a dance class.

He was not present to hear the judge impose a life sentence with a minimum term of 52 years, as the court was told he was likely to be “disruptive” if he was to enter the courtroom.

"This was the most harrowing, large-scale investigation that our force has ever dealt with," detective chief inspector Jason Pye said.