The search for the missing Cooper twins continued fruitlessly yesterday with Police refusing to explain how arsonists were able to gain access to the crime scene on Crown Hill in Devonshire on Thursday night.

It is understood that two officers were supposed to be guarding the premises at which Jahmal and Jahmil Cooper were believed to have been taken and assaulted soon after being abducted in the early hours of Sunday morning.

But it is not clear if the two officers were present on the scene when the fire was set off, or whether they were patrolling the surrounding streets.

However, Police sources told last night that investigators believe the culprits approached the house from the Wreck View Hill side and were obscured from the view of the two officers situated in a small car park at the property's western corner.

It is still not known how the fire started. Repeated calls to the Fire Service were not returned yesterday and

And the Police media relations department refused to comment on how serious a setback the blaze was to the planned forensic investigation of the site ? an analysis which Police were hoping would uncover clues as to the whereabouts of the twins or the identity of the kidnappers.

Police cancelled a Press conference scheduled for yesterday afternoon, instead releasing a statement which confirmed only that the investigation is ongoing.

Meanwhile, marine Police were spotted conducting diving operations in the waters off Flatts and in Harrington Sound.

"The investigation into the disappearance of the Cooper twins continues and now includes arson at the crime scene in Crown Hill, Devonshire," the statement said.

"Police believe persons unknown were attempting to obstruct the investigation into the assault and subsequent disappearance of the twins by torching the building. Police are urgently seeking the whereabouts of a number of individuals who may have information relating to the location of the Cooper twins."

Police also refused to comment on reports received by that the twins were the victims of a revenge attack after stealing a substantial amount of money from an underground gambling den.

Anybody with information is again asked to call Acting Insp. Jerome Laws on 299-4239 or the confidential Crimestoppers hotline on 1-800-623-8477.