THE hunt for the assassins who executed accountant David Wilson took a sensational twist today with the arrest of two men.

And the top detective in charge of the four year investigation, said the hunt for the two masked murderers was drawing to a close following the arrest of two men in Kent last night.

Businessman Mr Wilson, 47, was shot dead at his detached home in Brinscall, in March 1992.

Detective Superintendent Bob Denmark said a team from the murder incident room and the Lancashire Crime Support Unit had travelled south and had been keeping observations on two addresses.

DS Denmark refused to reveal further details about the men other than they were both in their 30s, English and lived in the south London area. He said names and addresses would be released later this afternoon.

A firearms team swooped on the homes last night but no shots were fired.

A search team is currently sifting through the addresses but so far nothing has been found.

The arrests follow an investigation by the Lancashire Constabulary, Interpol and the National Criminal Intelligence Service.

The two men were being brought back to Chorley police station today.

Mr Wilson's family have been informed of the latest developments and are said to be "happy."

DS Denmark said: "The family are relieved and happy but have been reminded of the terrible events they suffered four years ago. They had lost a bit of confidence but we always said we would find the men responsible."

DS Denmark said he was "cautiously pleased" at the arrests and now says the four year investigation should draw to an end.

American "Mr Big" Michael Austin is currently appealing against a life sentence imposed in February 1995 for ordering the execution of Mr Wilson.

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