KEY POINTS:
Police are following up a fresh lead in their investigation into the murders of Bay of Plenty criminals Darryl Crawford and William Taikato.
New information has led the inquiry team to check out a rural site 30km from Tauranga.
Crawford, 35, was last seen in August 2007, and Taikato, 40, in December.
The pair knew one another and had associates in common. Police say both were involved with drugs and gangs.
In mid-April a $50,000 reward was offered in each case for information leading to the conviction of their killer.
Inquiry head Detective Inspector Rob Jones, of Tauranga CIB, said today the team had received information leading to the identification of "a site of interest" which was within 5km of where Mr Crawford's vehicle was found in August 2007.
An assessment of the site was under way, involving local police and specialists from outside the area.
"It is anticipated that the preliminary examination will assist in identifying a smaller search area which will then be the subject of a more detailed forensic examination," Mr Jones said.
Family members of both men had been told of the latest information and were being kept updated.
Police are still seeking public help with the investigation and would like to talk to anyone with information.
- NZPA
