Claudia Lawrence
A man was arrested over the murder of Claudia Lawrence who was reported missing after failing to turn up for her shift as a chef in 2009 North Yorkshire Police

A man in his 50s has been arrested on suspicion of murdering Claudia Lawrence who disappeared six years ago.

North Yorkshire Police have stressed the body of the former York University chef has not been found and searches are being conducted in the area over the next couple of days.

Detective Superintendent Dai Malyn, head of North Yorkshire Police's Major Crime Unit and the senior investigating officer, said: "To ensure the investigation and legal process are not compromised or potentially damaged in any way during this critical phase in seeking the truth about Claudia's disappearance, North Yorkshire Police strongly advises the media and members of the public against identifying the man who has been arrested.

"This includes naming or publishing images of the man on traditional media platforms or social networking sites. I urge everyone to show restraint and patience while we carry out these very important enquiries."

The arrest comes as police released CCTV footage of two suspects walking nearby her house in Heworth Place in York on 18 March in 2009.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact Police on 101, select option 1, and pass details to the Force Control Room. Please quote "Claudia Lawrence" when passing on details.

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