Murder victim Basil McAfee

Detectives from the Police Service’s Major Investigation Team have today, Wednesday 20 December, made a renewed appeal for information in connection with the murder of Pascal Basil McAfee.

Mr McAfee, known as Basil, was found dead in his north Belfast home on 20 December 2013.

The appeal, which comes on the tenth anniversary of his murder, is backed by a reward of up to £20,000 from the charity Crimestoppers.

It also includes a specific ask for two females who may have information that could assist the investigation to get in touch.

Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Wilson said: “Mr McAfee was found dead in the living room of his home in Henderson Avenue, just off the Cavehill Road, on the afternoon of Friday 20 December 2013.

“He was last seen alive the previous evening.

“The 50-year-old suffered a shockingly violent and vicious death.  I believe he was beaten about the head with a sharp implement and then stabbed.

“This attack took place in what should have been the safety of his own home, with a number of items then taken from the house.”

Detective Chief Inspector Wilson continued: “It’s now 10 years on, and Basil’s family are left tortured with thoughts of how their loved one died.

“Their run up to Christmas – a happy time for many – is once again full of sadness.

“This was a cruel attack, and one which shocked an entire community.

“I am asking anyone with information to please search their conscience and speak to our team.

Basil McAfee shopping in an off licence on December 19 hours before he was murdered in 2013

“I am particularly keen to hear from two women who took a taxi from outside licensed premises on the Dublin Road, Belfast, on Wednesday 18 December 2013 at approximately 11pm.

“The two were dropped off at Henderson Avenue, and made their way into Basil’s home.

“I am asking you to get in touch with us on 101, as you may have information that could assist our investigation.”

A spokesperson for the charity Crimestoppers explained:  “Our charity is here for you if you prefer to stay anonymous or to be eligible for our reward.

“With Crimestoppers, computer IP addresses are never traced. Telephone calls are never recorded, there is no caller line display and no 1471 facility. We are independent of the police and guarantee complete anonymity.

“The reward will only be payable for information passed directly to Crimestoppers and not to the police. A reward code must be asked for when speaking to our Contact Centre or when completing an anonymous online form via our website.”

Contact Crimestoppers online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or call the charity’s 24/7 Contact Centre on 0800 555 111.