Detectives are searching a golf course in the hunt for the murder weapon used to kill nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel in Dovecot, Liverpool.
Merseyside Police are conducting an “extensive land search” at West Derby Golf Club three weeks on from her death.
Authorities are searching the area where the old Deysbrook Barracks were located.
Detective Chief Superintendent Mark Kameen said: “Three weeks on and our investigation continues in our relentless pursuit of the man responsible for Olivia’s murder and those who are shielding him.
“I promised that we would leave no stone unturned in our hunt for the offender and the guns used on that night, and today following information we are carrying out an extensive land search at West Derby Golf Club in our hunt for those weapons.
“Our search teams are being supported by the North West Underwater Search Team and the Merseyside Police drone unit.”
Olivia was shot in her home on 22 August when a gunman chased convicted burglar Joseph Nee into her house in Dovecot around 10pm.
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Nine men have been arrested in connection with her death and all have been bailed, police said.
Mr Kameen added: “My message to the offender is clear – we will not stop until we have the evidence to put you before the courts and behind bars.
“Olivia’s family are absolutely broken by her tragic loss, which has robbed a beautiful young child of the life and future she should have been looking forward to.
“Olivia wanted to be a teacher or a vet and her family have described her as someone who liked to laugh and make others laugh.
“She was an innocent young child in her own home, who should have been safe.
“Since Olivia’s murder the investigation team has been working around the clock.
“We have made nine arrests and we are building up an evidential picture, but we still need more information and we need to find the guns.
“I would appeal to anyone who has information which could help us with our investigation to come forward.
“This offender and those protecting him are a blight on the community and the impact they have on the decent people of the community is toxic.
“The information you have could be that vital piece of information we need to find justice for Olivia and her family. If you know anything please get in touch.
“All information received will be acted upon.”
Anyone with information is asked to DM @MerPolCC on Twitter or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting log 1083 of 22nd August.
