M54 Remains Identified As Oldbury Man

14 January 2016, 17:22 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

Surjit Takhar

The remains of a man found close to the M54 at Telford have been formally identified as Surjit Takhar from Oldbury.

The 37-year-old disappeared in 2008.

Police found the remains a year and a half ago but until now they didn't know who he was.  

His death is being treated as unexplained.

Police this afternoon released this statement to Heart: "Following lengthy investigations and detailed forensic searches, West Mercia Police were able to establish a full DNA profile. After further analysis of the DNA and of Surjit’s dental records, they were able to formally identify him.

"Surjit’s family have been informed, along with the Senior Coroner for Shropshire."

DCI Neil Jamieson, who is currently leading the investigation, said “Our thoughts are with Surjit’s family at this very difficult time.

"We are continuing to investigate his death, and now that we have a formal identification, we are pursuing other lines of enquiry to establish what has happened. We remain open minded as to how he died.

"At the time Surjit was reported missing West Midlands Police carried out a significant investigation in to his disappearance. As such we have been working closely with them to get an understanding of the enquiry, to try and piece together why and how he would end up at this inaccessible and unusual location.

"We would like to thank everyone who has assisted us with our enquiries so far, and we would urge anyone who knows anything about Surjit’s disappearance in 2008, including how he may have travelled to Telford, to contact police.”