KEY POINTS:
Separate murder investigations are under-way for two missing men involved in the Tauranga drug scene.
Detective Sergeant Darryl Brazier said police have received "reliable" information that both Darrell James Crawford and William Taikato have been murdered.
Mr Brazier made the announcement at a press conference in Tauranga this morning.
He said police are looking for the car of Mr Taikato who has been missing since December 20 last year.
Mr Brazier said the 1998 green Commodore has the registration plate UF9688 and has not been found while Mr Crawford's car was found last year with the keys in the ignition, unlocked and in the remote area of Oropi.
The Bay of Plenty Times reported this morning that the two men knew each other and lived within 5km.
"We are keeping a pretty open mind as to who is responsible," he told the Bay of Plenty Times.
Mr Taikato also had involvement with local gang members, Mr Brazier said.
He said neither men had accessed their bank accounts or been in touch with their families.
"These people have families, so needless to say they are very concerned over the disappearance of those two members," Mr Brazier told the Times.
He said anyone with information on either of the two men should contact Tauranga police on 0800 SPEAKUP or 07 577 4300.
- NZ HERALD STAFF
