Police have refused to comment on the status of a male suspect in the murder investigation of nine-year-old Chantel Crump, amid mounting public pressure for answers.

While Angela Mahia has been charged in connection with the child’s death, the man—detained earlier in the inquiry—remains in custody without any charges being filed. Authorities cite the ongoing investigation as the reason for their silence.

Legal experts point out that suspects typically cannot be held for more than 48 hours without charge, unless under protective custody—a possibility some believe may explain the man’s detention.

Chantel’s body was discovered in Weatherills on 15 March, following a police-led search guided by Mahia. Despite the formal charge, speculation persists over the involvement of others in the case.