‘They’ve severely beaten a young man with autism, and they’ve killed a pet dog. And they’re more than likely connected to a murder committed about eight months ago; probably one of their own. I know it doesn’t sound like much compared to the stuff we get every day in London, but the reason both of the “innocent victim” attacks are so worrying is that neither was necessary. The burglars had the upper hand in both situations. They turned to violence because they wanted to. As for the dead guy in the horsebox, I don’t know; maybe he pocketed the cufflinks and, in return, got what was coming.’

Ridley shared Jack’s concern. ‘Sounds like they’ve got a taste for it. Like a psychopath moving on from killing animals to killing people.’ Ridley slid his hands into his pockets and thought for a second before continuing. ‘Detective Chief Superintendent Lindgarden wants to bring in two DIs from Oxford Robbery to help you.’

Jack’s face tensed and his cheek muscles twitched.

‘Something’s happened out their way, which links them to your case, so they’re coming whether you like it or not. Use them, Jack; this is their world. But if they get in your way, you let me know.’

Just as Ridley walked out of Gifford’s office, Hearst entered the squad room with two men. At the sight of her, Gifford and his team all stood. Jack sighed. Keeping one senior officer off his back was going to be time-consuming enough; three would slow him right down.

Ridley and Hearst shook hands like old friends, even though this was actually the first time they’d met in person. Their one-hour, traffic-jam chat had clearly been a bonding experience. She was petite, with broad shoulders like a swimmer, and an impressively slim waist, and her suit was subtly tailored to set off her athletic figure. After greeting Gifford, she introduced her two companions: the Oxford Robbery boys.

DI Eamonn Lee was a sandy-haired man with stubble, brows and lashes so fair in colour that his face looked hairless. And this made his piercing blue eyes stand out. DI Colin Mason looked exactly like a thicker-set version of President Obama, but with a strong Welsh accent.

While Mason introduced himself with little fuss, Lee practically recounted his entire Robbery CV, as though wanting to make it very clear that he was the most experienced person in the room. This told Jack a lot about both men: confidence whispers, insecurity shouts. ‘It’ll be good to work alongside you, sirs. Your expertise will be very much appreciated,’ he said politely.