Police expect search of Leanach Quarry near Inverness in ongoing Renee MacRae murder investigation to be completed this week
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More than 5000 tonnes of recovered material has to be forensically searched in the inquiry into the disappearance of Renee MacRae and her son Andrew
Police said the excavation phase of the operation at Leanach Quarry, which started in May, is expected to be completed this week, with more than 100,000 tonnes of earth, silt and other material removed from the site, with 5,000 tonnes for forensic searching.
Approximately 55 vehicles – none linked to the enquiry – have been uncovered during the excavation phase and officers say 5000 tonnes of material is and will be forensically searched.
No trace of Inverness mother Renee MacRae and her three-year-old son Andrew has ever been found since they disappeared in 1976.
Her BMW was found on fire in an A9 layby at Dalmagarry. Her luggage and a pushchair were also missing.
Detective Inspector Brian Geddes said: "The forensic search of the quarry has been a significant undertaking.
"We have almost completed the excavation process but there remains a vast quantity of material that still requires to be sifted and thoroughly searched.
"This is likely to take a number of weeks to complete but we are confident that if the remains of Renee and Andrew, or any other key pieces of evidence, were disposed of in the quarry, we will find them.
"The process of backfilling sections of the quarry where excavation has taken place has commenced and again this will continue over a matter of weeks.
"I would like to thank everyone that has been involved in the operation to date, and the surrounding community, for their patience while this has been ongoing.
"We remain determined to bring this matter to a successful conclusion and we continue to progress all relevant lines of enquiry.
"I would urge anyone who we have yet to speak to, and who has information, to please come forward and contact us."
Anyone who believes they can assist Police is asked to contact 101 or email SCDHOLMESInverness@scotland.pnn.police.uk. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
