Grawin lightingridge

Have you seen this man? Malcolm Naden (above left) is believed to be hiding in the area around Grawin. Kristy Scholes (above right) was found dead at Naden’s house the same night he went missing.Police search for murder suspectThursday, 22 December 2005 Homicide detectives from across the State descended on Grawin last week in a large-scale operation to catch a suspected murderer believed to be hiding in the area.
While the oblivious locals went about their business 19 undercover officers spent the days searching for Malcolm Naden, who is wanted for the murder of Kristy Scholes in June of this year.
Detective Sergeant Bryne Ruse said police have strong reason to suspect Naden has chosen Grawin as his hiding place.
"Our intelligence has been building for the last couple of months and it seems to point to him being somewhere nearby," Detective Ruse said.
There have been several sightings of the fugitive, including one as recently as last TuesdayAlthough Naden is said to be capable of living in the bush on his own it is believed he is being supported by somebody. He has several associates in the area, including some distant relatives.
"Our intelligence suggests that he may be getting an income by working for cash, perhaps in the mines, or selling opals after noodling on the dumps," Detective Ruse said, adding that anybody caught assisting Naden would face serious charges.
A warrant for Naden's arrest was issued after he disappeared following the murder of Miss Scholes, his cousin, in Dubbo on or about June 22. He is also wanted in relation to an act of indecency on a child in 2004, and for questioning over the disappearance of Lateesha Nolan earlier this year.
Miss Nolan, a mother of four, went missing from Naden's house - the same house where the body of Miss Scholes was found - on January 4 and has not been seen since.
Police are appealing for help from the local community in their search for the suspected killer.
"At the moment we're trying to keep the trail warm, and we need the public to come forward," Detective Ruse said.
Locals are being told to keep an eye out for Naden and, if they see him, make what observations they can.
"Things we need to know are what vehicle he's driving and who he's with, but any small piece of information might assist the police."
There is a reward available for anybody who assists in the capture or prosecution of Naden.
He is 31 and described as being of Aboriginal appearance, 177cm tall, 85kg, of medium build and olive complexion, with brown eyes. It is also likely that he may have grown more facial and head hair and may act in a way to disguise his appearance, such as wearing a hooded jacket in the middle of the summer heat.
Anyone with information is urged to immediately contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.