Three people have been arrested in connection with the murder of schoolboy Damilola Taylor.
Ten-year-old Damilola was stabbed to death while on his way home from school in Peckham, south-east London, in November 2000.
The three men were arrested in south London on Wednesday morning in what police have described as "significant developments" in the case.
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.
BBC Home Affairs Correspondent Andy Tighe said it was understood those being questioned were not the same people who were acquitted after the trial at the Old Bailey.
Police have confirmed they were arrested as part of the original inquiry but were released without charge.
" These significant developments today are the result of a determined effort to establish the truth of what happened on that day "
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."
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.
"I pay tribute to Mr and Mrs Taylor for their patience, understanding and support throughout the course of this investigation."
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."
He said the family has been kept fully informed by the police and that they are pleased with the way things are going.
Damilola bled to death in the stairwell of the North Peckham Estate after being stabbed in the thigh on his way home from school.
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.
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