Police detectives today arrested three men aged in their 50s on suspicion of murder in the investigation of the missing University of York chef.
The men are from the York area and police said searches are expected to be conducted over the following days.
35-year-old Claudia Lawrence went missing in 2009 from her home on Heworth Road.
She was last seen outside her home as she returned from work and sent a text message later that evening.
This series of arrests follows an earlier arrest where a local man aged in his 50s, now on police bail, was detained on 23 March 2015.
A university spokesperson said: “Claudia was a highly valued and popular member of the University staff. She and her family have been much in our thoughts over the past six years.
“We hope that the authorities are able to bring their investigations to a swift conclusion for the sake of the family.”
At the start of this year detectives investigating Miss Lawrence’s disappearance re-examined an alleyway behind her home for fresh clues.
Detective Superintendent Dai Malyn, head of North Yorkshire Police’s Major Crime Unit and the senior investigating officer in the Claudia Lawrence inquiry released a statement following today’s arrest.
He said: “As with the previous arrest last month, I strongly advise the media and members of the public against identifying the men who have been arrested.”
“This is to ensure the investigation and legal process are not compromised or potentially damaged in any way.
“This includes naming or publishing images of the men, their home addresses, places of work, their vehicles and properties being searched on traditional media platforms or social networking sites.
“I urge everyone to again show restraint and patience while we carry out these very important enquiries.
“Your co-operation and support is greatly appreciated by the investigation team.”
North Yorkshire Police have carried out a series of searches since launching a review of the case in 2013.
Anyone with information should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select Option 1 and quote ‘Claudia Lawrence’, where they will be able to pass details to the Force Control Room.