Detective pulled from Basha case; two arrests

The detective leading the investigation into the death of Canadian student Joey Basha has been pulled off the case, while two people have been arrested after being found with the 25-year-old's mobile phone.

Police refused to say why the detective had been withdrawn from the case, but have told the family that an inquest into Basha's death will take place when the coroner sets a date.

The lack of progress has left the family fearful that the full truth about Basha's death will never be known.

His body was found slumped in a public-toilet cubicle in Yau Ma Tei near his home last December, 48 hours before he was reported missing. A yellow nylon belt was around his upper left arm and two fresh needle marks were on his left forearm. Basha (pictured) was left-handed, and there were no old needle marks on his body. Police said there was no reason to believe the death was suspicious, but launched a criminal investigation because Basha's phone and wallet were reported missing.

A man and a woman were arrested on January 8 after being found in possession of Basha's phone but were released on bail, according to members of Basha's family, who say they only learnt of the arrest 10 days later when they asked police for an update. Police have not released details about the suspects, though their case has now been referred to the Department of Justice.

'I understand if they're withholding information from us because it could compromise the investigation,' said Basha's sister Jacqueline Berenson.

'But I really wish they would keep us in the loop and at least reassure us that something is happening. Maybe [the detective] doesn't realise I need him to say that.'