MURDER victim Gary Suller was “let down” by Gwent Police and that “opportunities were lost to take a more proactive approach" in helping Mr Suller.

That was the verdict of an investigation by the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) into Gwent Police’s handling of events prior to Mr Suller’s death.

The probe was launched as Mr Suller had reported a number of incidents involving Barry Bowyer to Gwent Police prior to the discovery of his body at his home in Cwmbran on 6 September 2011.

Bowyer was today convicted of Gary Suller’s murder at Cardiff Crown Court.

The IPCC said they found: “no misconduct by individual officers or staff but did find organisational issues.”

IPCC Commissioner for Wales Tom Davies said: "I would like to offer my condolences to Mr Suller's family and friends at what must be a very difficult time for them.

"The responsibility for Mr Suller's death is solely that of Bowyer and he has received a life sentence for that terrible crime.

"However, our investigation found that Gwent Police let Mr Suller down and he did not receive the service he should have done.

"He took proper action in informing Gwent Police of the incidents he was the alleged victim of and they had a duty of care towards him.

"Mr Suller put his faith in Gwent Police believing all the incidents he reported to them would be investigated effectively and dealt with appropriately.

"It is evident that opportunities were lost for Gwent Police to take a more proactive approach in dealing with the problems that Mr Suller was experiencing.

"The same concerns were highlighted following the inspection carried out by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary into Gwent Police's response to anti-social behaviour related issues.

"Gwent Police has responded positively to the recommendations made by the IPCC and the HMIC and are implementing changes to address these."