New Zealand Police are assisting NSW Police with the investigation into the disappearance of missing New Zealander Marion Anne Sandford.
NSW Police have announced today that the NSW Government would be offering a $100,000 reward for information relating to the disappearance and presumed murder of Ms Sandford.
NSW Acting Police Minister, David Campbell, has said while a price could not be placed on justice – the $100,000 reward might encourage anyone with information to come forward.
The NSW Government offers rewards to help solve some of the most serious cases where police need the public’s assistance to solve a crime.
Marion Sandford, born in Wellington in 1956, was living with her brother Peter Sandford, in Cammeray on Sydney’s North Shore, prior to her disappearance around 24 January 1980.
Three days after she was last seen by him, Peter received a letter claiming to be from Marion, letting him know she was alright and that she would be away until later that week. That was the last contact anyone has had with Marion – that we know of.
In 2002, Marion’s disappearance was investigated by NSW Police in connection with the disappearance of two other women – Linda Davie, who was last seen in St Leonards, NSW, in April 1980 and Mary Wallace – last seen in Crows Nest, NSW in September 1983.
One line of inquiry has been the potential involvement in drugs and the supply of drugs in the area at that time. NSW Police are also reviewing any links that Marion may have had with a heroin importation syndicate.
Police want to hear from anyone that might have known Marion Sandford, whether it be friends, relatives or associates.
The officers responsible for the investigation believe new information will assist them in identifying the criminals – whether it is here in New Zealand, in Australia or anywhere else this investigation may take them.
New Zealand Police urge anyone with any information – no matter how small or insignificant you may think the information is – to come forward to their local Police Station or contact the National Missing Person Unit on 04 4749499.
Australian residents can contact Australian Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.
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