A BASINGSTOKE man has been arrested for the first time on suspicion of murdering PC Andrew Harper as police say 'new evidence' has come to light. 

More than 100 officers raided homes in Reading and Basingstoke this morning resulting in four arrests in connection to the murder probe.

A 21-year-old man from Basingstoke has been taken into custody, arrested on suspicion of murder and theft.

Three teenagers from Reading, who had previously been arrested in connection with the investigation, have been re-arrested on suspicion of murder and theft. 

All four are in custody where detectives are questioning them.

It comes after PC Harper was killed while he was investigating a burglarly in West Berkshire on August 15. 

Today more than 100 police officers carried out warrants across Basingstoke and Reading to arrest four people in connection with the murder probe.

Detective Superintendent Ailsa Kent, of Thames Valley Police's major crime unit, said: "We are continuing to investigate the death of our colleague PC Andrew Harper and today we have re-arrested three people in connection with this.

"In addition to these re-arrested, we have also arrested a further suspect, a 21-year-old man from Basingstoke. 

"All four have been arrested on suspicion of murder and theft and are in our custody.

"This follows new evidence coming to light as the investigation has progressed in recent weeks.

"Members of the public might see an increased police presence at the location of these warrants today.

"We appreciate the public's patience and support while we progress these critical lines of enquiry. 

“This is an ongoing, complex investigation, and we remain committed to achieving justice for PC Harper, his family, friends and colleagues.

“I would also like to reiterate our appeal for anyone who knows anything about this incident to come forward and talk to police, if you have not already done so.

“Anyone with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, should call the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number on 101.”

If you would like to make a report anonymously, you can do so online or by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Jed Foster, aged 20, of Pingewood, Burghfield, Reading was charged on August 19 with one count of murder and one count of theft.

He appeared at Reading Crown Court on Wednesday, August 21 and has been remanded in custody.