POLICE investigating the disappearance of a teenager 16 years ago are carrying out tests on the contents of the former home of killer Peter Tobin.
Forensic experts are looking for the DNA of Vicky Hamilton, 15, who went missing in February 1991.
They had stripped the house in West Lothian where Tobin, the man who raped and murdered Polish student Angelika Kluk, had been staying at the time
Vicky went missing.
The teenager went missing in Bathgate in 1991. Police believe it is likely she was abducted and murdered.
Peter Tobin, 60, who was convicted in April of the rape and murder of Polish student Angelika Kluk, lived in the town at that time.
His former home in Robertson Avenue is only a mile from the town centre where Vicky was last seen eating a bag of chips.
She was travelling from Livingston to her home near Falkirk and was changing buses when she disappeared.
The Hamilton family now face yet another period of uncertainty as the police say they expect the forensic examinations to continue for a matter of weeks, and, if nothing is found, the 16-year long mystery will continue.
Last night, Vicky's father Michael Hamilton, 56, said he was disappointed police had not located her remains.
Mr Hamilton, from Falkirk, said: "I'm disappointed no trace of Vicky has been found. Part of me really wanted to believe Tobin may have been responsible for her going missing, just so we could finally move on.
"Police have told me forensic testing may go on for months; it's not looking good they'll find anything, though. Since it was announced his house was going to be searched, a lot of painful wounds have been reopened.
"I've always said that it's the peace of mind I want and, until I get this, I won't be able to properly grieve for Vicky and move on."
Mr Hamilton also revealed his plans to visit Tobin in prison have been blocked by senior police officers.
He said: "I was wanting to visit Tobin in prison and ask him if he had anything to do with Vicky's disappearance. The police have told me this simply isn't an option, though. As much as I want answers, I have to respect their advice."
The family who currently occupy the house were yesterday given back their keys and told they could return.
Lothian and Borders Detective Superintendent Brian Doneghan said: "We have completed the examination of a house in Robertson Avenue. The house was returned to its owners this morning.
"The search operation proceeded smoothly and the police are very grateful for the co-operation and assistance provided by the house owners and local residents. The owners have asked that they be left alone in order to return to their normal lifestyle.
"The results of the examination are now subject to scientific analysis and consideration. The ongoing inquiry into the disappearance of Vicky Hamilton will continue. We would urge anyone with information about the case to come forward."
