Damilola was stabbed to death

The suspects, believed to be a man and two youths, had previously been arrested over the killing, but were never charged.

Police said Wednesday's arrests were "significant developments" in the case.

Damilola bled to death after being stabbed with a broken bottle while on his way home from school in Peckham, south-east London, in November 2000.

Police must apply to magistrates for more time to question the three if they are not charged or released on Thursday.

These significant developments today are the result of a determined effort to establish the truth of what happened on that day Deputy Assistant Commissioner Bill Griffiths

In 2002, four youths stood trial for the killing but were cleared.

But the case was kept open and Det Ch Insp Nick Ephgrave was appointed to lead the investigation.

He said Damilola's parents, Richard and Gloria, had been told of the arrests.

Detectives are understood to be concentrating on using new DNA techniques on forensic evidence gathered at the time.

In September, police also searched several addresses in Peckham after which a police spokesman said: "We are very confident this is a case that will be solved."

All that we have ever wanted is justice for our son Damilola's father Richard Taylor

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Bill Griffiths said of the arrests: "These significant developments today are the result of a determined effort to establish the truth of what happened on that day."

In a statement, Mr Taylor said: "The family are very encouraged with the news of today's arrests and the extent of the police investigation.

"All that we have ever wanted is justice for our son."

Damilola died in the stairwell of the North Peckham Estate after being stabbed in the thigh.

At the Old Bailey trial, evidence from the prosecution's key witness, a 12-year-old girl, was thrown out by the judge who ruled it was unreliable.

Two youths were then acquitted on the direction of the judge and another two were found not guilty.