AN autopsy conducted on Monday on the remains of Miriam Edwards, has found that she died as a result of asphyxiation due to manual strangulation.

This was confirmed by Divisional Commander, Senior Superintendent Dion Moore, who also told this publication that the police file has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice.

On June 8, the lifeless body of the 25-year-old woman was found in the Puruni River, Region Seven, a short distance away from the mining camp where she worked as a cook.

According to reports, Edwards was attacked and robbed by a 25-year-old pork- knocker. Her living quarters were ransacked and a quantity of gold was reportedly stolen.

The suspect was later arrested by public-spirited persons and reportedly admitted to strangling the woman and dumping her body in the river.

The suspect, who is a resident of Middle Street, Buxton, East Coast Demerara, remains in police custody as investigations continue.