Patched Rebels gang member still on the run

A patched Rebels gang member who escaped electronic bail is still on the run from Police and his family is urging him to give himself up.

Craig Wayne Matthews, aged 37, was last seen by a family member in Palmerston North a week ago (Friday 21 September 2012), but failed to return home to Whanganui later that day.

Craig 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 last Friday morning, having previously accepted an 11 year sentence indication, but did not appear.

Central District Field Crime Supervisor Detective Inspector Chris Bensemann says Police have been speaking with members of Matthews family and associates in recent days, but have not located him as yet.

"His family have advised us that they hope Craig does the right thing and hands himself into Police as soon as possible. A warrant for his arrest was issued on Wednesday by the Palmerston North District Court for breaching bail conditions."

He is described as New Zealand European, around 184 centimetres tall of medium to solid build with gang associates throughout the North Island and connections in Otaki, Foxton, Hamilton, Auckland, Whangarei and Kaitaia.

"Anyone with any information in relation to the whereabouts of Craig Matthews should phone their nearest Police station or phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."