LEAFLETS bearing the images of suspects wanted over the shooting of a Southampton dad have been delivered to hundreds of homes around the murder scene.

Police have been distributing the leaflets today appealing for any information about the killing of 23-year-old Jahmel Jones who was shot dead in a flat in St Mary Street in Southampton on Saturday.

The leaflets, containing a CCTV image of three men detectives want to trace in connection with the shooting, have been delivered to homes in St Mary's Street and Northam Road as well as adjoining side roads.

Officers are also continuing with increased patrols and street briefings.

Chief Inspector Craig Dibdin, said: "We're maintaining a visible presence in the area while the investigation continues so that we can answer any questions residents may have and listen to their concerns.

"We recognise the impact that a crime like this has on the wider community and we are working closely with colleagues on the Hampshire Major Investigation Team and Operation Fortress to reassure people that the force is committed to solving this murder as well as to tackling the wider problems associated with drug-related violence.

"We also know that the investigation has caused some disruption to the community and we are working as fast as we can to return the area to normality. We thank residents again for their patience and support."

It was hoped remaining residents who have not been able to get into their homes since the shooting owing to the ongoing forensic examination of the immediate area around the shooting, would be able to return by tonight.

Police have so far made five arrests over the murder of Jahmel, who police say was known to his family under that name and not Jamal as they had previously released.

Officers from Operation Fortress were in the area today talking to residents about the force's work to restrict the flow of drugs into Southampton and combat drug-related violence in the city.

Anyone with any information about the shooting in St Mary's should contact the Hampshire Major Investigation Team by calling 101 and quoting Operation Emetic. If they have information but wish to remain anonymous they can call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

If you're concerned about drug activity across Southampton, you can contact the Operation Fortress team in confidence on 101 or email operation.fortress@hampshire.pnn.police.uk