South Australia Police (SAPOL) today excavated a small section of land at a commercial factory site in North Plympton

As part of an ongoing investigation into the disappearance of the three Beaumont children in 1966, South Australia Police (SAPOL) today excavated a small section of land at a commercial factory site in North Plympton.

No new information or evidence was uncovered.

This search follows the recent use of sophisticated ground penetrating radar (GPR) at the site, near the corner of Raymond and Kinkaid avenues in the hope of finding Jane, Arnna and Grant Beaumont who disappeared on Australia Day.

During that examination the GPR found one small anomaly, which can indicate movement or objects within the soil.   In order to be able to categorically state that every possibility was thoroughly examined and discounted, police today dug at the location indicated by the GPR.  The site has been thoroughly searched beyond the specific area that was excavated today.  That search was based on information provided to South Australia Police by members of the public who believed they had valuable information regarding this crime.  While their decision to come forward and assist the investigation is commended, police can confidently say this line of inquiry is now at an end.

“The Beaumont family have been informed of this outcome,” said Assistant Commissioner Paul Dickson.

“They have been kept fully abreast of the investigation at all times.

“Police are well aware of recent allegations made in a book and aired in a locally produced TV program. We have closely followed every element, allegation and piece of information in a professional, thorough and timely fashion as expected by the public in relation to Major Crime investigations.

“We have been investigating this matter with the rigor expected by the courts and the community.

“We will not have our timelines, actions or investigations dictated by media, nor will we be distracted by their antics.  Our investigation has also been conducted with due consideration to the family and the obvious emotional impact this has on the elderly parents of the children.  Unfortunately, other elements seeking to gain mileage from this tragic crime have not shown such consideration.

“This detailed and appropriate investigation has closed off this line of inquiry, but police will always investigate the disappearance of the Beaumont children as and when credible evidence comes to light  – as we have in the past.

“Solving murders and other ‘declared’ major crimes remains a priority until those cases are solved –  regardless of the passage of time – and we would urge anyone with information in this case to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

“I commend the team at Major Crime Investigation section for their dedicated efforts in this case despite the unhelpful and misguided actions by some commentators.”

“I would take this opportunity to strongly refute the unwarranted and unsubstantiated statements calling into question the professionalism of the South Australia Police and the Detectives involved in this investigation,” Assistant Commissioner Dickson said.

The police investigation into the disappearance of the Beaumont children remains open, and police would urge anyone with information which could assist in the inquiry to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.sa.crimestoppers.com.au