Man denies Exeter murder

Accused has name-change

The man charged with the murder of Exeter woman Lorraine Cox last month has appeared in court to deny the accusation.

When he appeared before Exeter magistrates following his arrest, he was called Christopher Mayer. Now the 23-year-old, of no fixed abode, has revealed his real name as Azum Mangori.

He has been charged with the murder of Ms Cox and preventing the lawful burial of her body. He spoke only to confirm his correct name and to deny the offences at Exeter Crown Court on Thursday. A trial will now be held on 1 March next year.

Five other men, aged 22, 30, 33, 43 and 71, who were arrested in connection with the investigation have had their police bail extended.

Ms Cox was last seen in Exeter city centre on Tuesday 1 September. An area around Mary Arches Street and Fore Street was cordoned off for some weeks whilst police searched for her body. An area of woodland around Newton St Cyres to the north west of Exeter was also searched. Police divers also examined an area of the River Exe near the city centre.

Detective Chief Inspector Lee Nattrass from the Major Crime Investigation Team said: “Family members of Lorraine are being supported by specialist family liaison officers and they continue to ask that their privacy is respected during this difficult time.

“Whilst of course we understand the public interest in these updates, we remind the public that this is a live and active case and we ask members of the public not to speculate on social media.

“Should any member of the public feel that they have information that could assist the investigation team I would urge them not to post this online and instead make contact with the police via 101@dc.police.uk or by calling 101 quoting Log 285 of 9 September."