Police Discover Vehicle in Mullewa Gunman Hunt, But Fugitive Still Missing
In a significant development in the search for Mullewa fugitive Kenneth John Giles, police have found his abandoned vehicle in a remote scrub area, though the accused gunman himself remains at large after nearly two months on the run. The discovery was made by a member of the public on Monday afternoon and reported to authorities, marking a crucial breakthrough in the protracted manhunt that began on January 7.
Vehicle Located in Remote Bushland Near Hackett Creek
The white Nissan Patrol used by Giles was found in an area called Nunierra, approximately 40 kilometres north-east of the property where the alleged shooting occurred. The vehicle was abandoned near Hackett Creek along the Carnarvon-Mullewa Road, with some alcohol and medication inside, but no firearms were recovered. Mid West-Gascoyne Police Superintendent Neil Vanderplank confirmed that the vehicle appeared to have no mechanical issues, was not bogged, and still contained fuel, allowing detectives to drive it out for further investigation in Mullewa.
Heavy Rain from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Mitchell Hinders Investigation
Superintendent Vanderplank noted that heavy rainfall from ex-tropical cyclone Mitchell has severely hampered the search efforts, washing away any tracks or forensic clues that could have indicated Giles' direction of travel. This has made it irrelevant to use police dogs, as any scent would have dissipated long ago. The vehicle is believed to have been abandoned for some time, likely before the rain, leaving investigators with limited leads despite the breakthrough.
Expanded Search Efforts and Ongoing Investigation
Police are conducting line searches on the ground within a 300-metre radius of the vehicle's location, using drones and planning to expand the area. They will also revisit nearby stations and properties to check structures such as sheds, water tanks, and windmills. Giles, described as an experienced bushman, could potentially survive off the land with access to water sources and food like kangaroos and wild pigs in the vicinity.
Uncertainty Over Giles' Fate and Appeals for Information
Superintendent Vanderplank stated that the vehicle discovery does not provide new insights into whether Giles is alive or dead, but it offers a starting point for the search. He mentioned that while there is no direct evidence, police are considering the possibility that Giles might have received help to evade capture. Authorities have kept Giles' partner, Tanya Moran, and his family updated on the investigation, with them feeling optimistic plus apprehensive due to the uncertainty.
Police have reported no thefts, damage, or break-ins in the area, and Superintendent Vanderplank reiterated a call for Giles, if alive, to surrender peacefully. He emphasized that a dedicated team based in Geraldton is committed to resolving the matter, stating, We need to find him and deal with the matter at hand, ensuring that no stone will be left unturned in this ongoing manhunt.
