Patched Rebels gang member sought after escaping electronic bail

Central District Police are seeking help from the public to locate a patched Rebels gang member, who has escaped electronic bail.

Central District Field Crime Supervisor Detective Inspector Chris Bensemann says 37 year old Craig Wayne Matthews was last seen by a family member in Palmerston North on Friday morning (21 September 2012), but failed to return home to Whanganui later that day.

"Matthews was arrested as part of Operation Stamp (Rebels motorcycle gang methamphetamine operation) in February last year and was to be arraigned on methamphetamine dealing and money laundering charges in the Palmerston North District Court on Friday morning, having previously accepted an 11 year sentence indication, but did not appear."

A warrant for Matthews arrest has been issued today by the Palmerston North District Court for breaching bail conditions.

Matthews is described as New Zealand European, around 184 centimetres tall of medium to solid build. He has gang associates throughout the North Island and connections in Otaki, Foxton, Hamilton, Auckland, Whangarei and Kaitaia. He should not be approached by members of the public.

Detective Inspector Bensemann says Police would like to hear from anyone with any information in relation to the current whereabouts of Craig Matthews.

"Anyone with any information should phone their nearest Police station or phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."