New lead in NT murder

Territory police yesterday reopened the investigation into the execution-style murder of a drug baron three years ago.

They believe a man hiding out in Queensland holds the answer to the mystery.

Craig Kenneth Matthews, 35, died from a single pistol shot to the head.

The Territory Government posted a $250,000 reward for the conviction of his killer.

Detective Sergeant Wayne Brayshaw,of the Major and Organised Crime Division, said new information opened a "new angle" to the investigation.

He appealed to Territorians who could help police inquiries to come forward.

An indemnity from prosecution will be recommended for the first accomplice to give information leading to the capture of the murderer.

Mr Matthews was found dead by police at his home on Bees Creek Road, Bees Creek, 30km south of Darwin, on October 8,2001.

An anonymous caller told police he died of an overdose.

A suspect is believed to have been named during a coronial inquest in November last year.

But all evidence from the hearing was supressed.

Police believe Matthews was involved with the Territory's biggest drug gang.

The Government hoped the hefty reward would lead to the killer being captured and the gang's operations being exposed.

Gang members are believed to be making $50,000 a week selling amphetamines and cannabis.

"We had to offer a big enough reward to get one of them talking," a government source said.

"This is a big, well organised gang. We want the murderer - but we want much more. We want the rest of the gang too."

Anybody who can help police is asked to contact their local police station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Newshawk: http://www.napnt.org
Pubdate: 18th December 2004
Author: Nigel Adlam
Source: Northern Territory News
Website: http://www.ntnews.com.au
Email: ntnmail@ntn.newsltd.com.au
Copyright: 2004 Northern Territory News