DETECTIVES investigating the racially-motivated killing of black teenager Christopher Alaneme and the attempted murder of another man are pleased with the public's response to the release of CCTV pictures of potential witnesses.

Christopher, 18, was stabbed to death in Sheerness High Street shortly before midnight on Friday, April 21. Another man injured in the attack has since been discharged from hospital.

Since the publication of the images, two men seen talking to police after the stabbings have been identified and a woman seen walking in the High Street has contacted police.

But Det Ch Insp Jon Bumpus, who is leading the investigation, said: "We still need to identify everyone who was in the High Street late on that Friday night and we would continue to urge people to come forward."

The images were shown on Crimewatch on Tuesday night and Mr Alaneme's mother Agatha gave an interview renewing her appeal for people with information to come forward.

She said: "I feel very hurt, cheated and sad for what they have done to my boy, my only son. I don’t know how they can sleep."

In a previous statement, Mrs Alaneme, who described her son as a "lovely, humble, respectful, polite and promising young man", paid tribute to the people of Sheerness who have helped so far in the investigation.

She said: "Chris told me so many times that Sheerness is a lovely place, and everyone is so nice. They welcomed him with open arms.

"I am so grateful, touched and overwhelmed by the love and respect shown to us, Chris’s family, by the people of Sheerness.

"I know that there are many wonderful people who have already helped the police with their investigation.

"I am also sure that there are many more people who could help, that for whatever reason, have not yet come forward."

Supt Steve Corbishley, deputy commander for the Mid Kent area, added: "Christopher’s murder and the attempted murder of another man has both shocked and saddened local people.

"What is apparent is that there are a number of people who witnessed Christopher’s murder and have yet to come forward.

"I would like to stress that, even though police have made a number of arrests, we need to speak with anyone who may have information relating to this terrible crime."

Five men have previously been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder and have been bailed.

One other man has been arrested in conncection with the investigation and has also been bailed.

* Anyone with information is being urged to contact the incident room hotline - 01622 654860.Alternatively, people can call Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Calls to this number are free, you do not have to leave your name and you could be eligible for a cash reward.