Victorian Homicide Squad Detectives have released the name and identity of the man whose remains were found in the Maribyrnong River between February 5 and 8.

A Victoria Police statement said the 32-year-old North Melbourne man has been identified as Brendan David Bernard.

Detectives have released an image of Mr Bernard, which was taken late last year, in the hope it will assist their investigation.

• More body parts found in river
• Body parts found floating in river

Police say the man was known to police, however investigators have not been able to establish the motive for his death and/or the gruesome dismemberment.

The 32-year-old North Melbourne man has been identified as Brendan David Bernard. Photo: Victoria Police

It is believed Mr Bernard’s last known movements were in Melbourne’s CBD on the afternoon of Tuesday, January 27.

On Thursday, February 5, two severed limbs and a bag of flesh was seen floating near a jetty outside Gary Mehigan’s Boathouse restaurant, on the Maribyrnong River in Melbourne.

More remains were found on the Friday, Saturday and again on Sunday.

On Sunday, February 8,  a woman who was rowing on the river noticed a plastic bag in the rocks on the side of the river, looked inside and found what she believed to be human remains.

Investigators are appealing for information to assist in establishing Mr Bernard’s movement’s after this date and appeal for anyone to come forward.

Anyone with information should phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au