German partner of Maltese woman arrested in UK over Surrey murder

The German partner of a Maltese woman has been arrested in connection with the murder of his wife Melanie Wallner.

Peter Wallner, 33, was arrested shortly after 8 p.m. on his arrival in Gatwick. Mr Wallner voluntarily went to the UK to speak to the police after they contacted him in Malta and told him they wanted to speak to him.

Mrs Wallner’s body was found in a bin outside a house in Hamilton Avenue, Cobham on Saturday. Her identity was confirmed through dental records and her next of kin were informed last night.

Mr Wallner used to live at this house with Lilia Fenech, his Maltese wife of six months, until about three weeks ago.

Mrs Wallner would have been 32-years-old on November 10 last year, but it is still unclear when she died.

Detective Chief Inspector Maria Woodall said:

"We have received varying accounts from Melanie's family, friends and neighbours about her recent history. Some had thought she moved away from Surrey in the last few years and others believed she may have died in 2006.

"I am now asking for people's help in building a picture of the last years of her life. Specifically, I would like to hear from anyone we haven't yet spoken to who has seen Melanie since August 2006 or people who knew her well shortly before this date.

"The response to our investigation - both locally in Cobham and further afield - has been very supportive and we have received many useful phone calls. Melanie's family are obviously very shocked at this time and we are determined, with the public's help, to find them the truth about her death."

Forensics experts are continuing a search of the address in Hamilton Avenue and officers have extended their house-to-house enquires.

The police asked for any information that could assist in the investigation to be passed on to them on 0044 845 125 2222.