Task Force Southern is today searching for the firearm believed to be used in the murder of Robert Atkins. Searches are being conducted in the Mid North of the state near Spalding and Booborowie following a development in the investigation.
Major Crime Investigation Branch's Detective Superintendent Des Bray said the investigations into Robert's death are progressing well.
"We received information of a middle aged couple acting suspiciously at about 3:45pm on Wednesday 22 June on Broughton Valley Road near the bridge over the Hutt River south of Spalding. Today we are searching that area," Detective Superintendent Bray said.
"A truck drove past at the time and spooked the couple who left in a dark sedan – they returned after they thought the truck had left the area."
Pistol bullets for a 38 calibre pistol and packaging were later found in the area and are now in possession of police.
"Today water operations specialists, police officers and protective security officers are searching the area to try and locate the pistol and more ammunition which we believe may be connected to the murder of Robert."
"We believe the people seen at the bridge on June 22 may have been disposing evidence on behalf of a suspect in Robert's murder."
Investigators are optimistic the vehicle and occupants can be identified – but are appealing to anyone with information on the couple who were seen at the bridge to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
"We expect DNA and fingerprints on the bullets and packaging will provide compelling evidence against the suspects in this murder investigation. It may also lead to convictions of anyone who assisted murder suspects," he said.
"If anyone has found bullets or packaging along RM Williams Way or the Goyder Highway near Spalding please also contact Crime Stoppers."
In another development, Northern Territory Police have assisted Task Force Southern in locating an excavator and trailer stolen from a Meadows property in November 2019 which is linked to suspects in this investigation.
The excavator is valued at $50000, which police know was used in the Mid North, was seized on 12 July by Northern Territory Police after they raided a property at Borroloola (2800kilometres away - shown on below map). The investigation into the theft and changing appearance of the excavator are continuing.
There is a reward of $200,000 for information leading to conviction of people who killed Robert or the recovery of his remains.
Images of pistols which fit ammunition found south of Spalding
