A fourth individual has now been formally charged in connection with the disturbing disappearance and alleged murder of cybersecurity expert Andrew Burow, a case that has gripped Brisbane since last year. The 56-year-old father vanished from an inner-city Brisbane apartment on August 24, before his severely beaten remains were discovered in a rural area at Maidenwell, north of the city, on September 2.
Gruesome Details of the Alleged Crime
Police have presented a harrowing account of the events leading to Mr Burow's death. They allege the victim was forcibly taken to as many as eight different locations, where he was subjected to torture before being killed. During the investigation, forensic teams uncovered chilling evidence in a fire pit on a rural property, including burnt alcohol wipes, zip ties, a mobile phone, and a piece of paper containing details of Mr Burow's family members.
Latest Arrest and Charges
The latest suspect, a 44-year-old man from Lake Macdonald, was arrested on Friday and now faces one count each of torture, deprivation of liberty, and extortion. He is scheduled to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on February 5. This development follows the earlier charging of three other men aged 26, 38, and 57, who have been accused of murder, kidnapping, extortion, and misconduct with a corpse by interfering.
Connections and Backgrounds
Investigators will allege that the 26-year-old suspect, Billy John Howard from North Lakes, was acquainted with Mr Burow. Another of the accused, 38-year-old Anthony Perrett, is a former CFMEU delegate who was named in an ongoing royal commission last year. During that inquiry, it was alleged that Perrett personally drove witnesses to interviews with union investigator Geoffrey Watson SC, with the witnesses being fitted with recording devices.
CFMEU administrator Mark Irving KC described this as an intimidation tactic designed to ensure witnesses did not 'squeal'. It is important to note that there is no suggestion the CFMEU is in any way connected to Mr Burow's murder. The case continues to unfold as authorities piece together the motives and full extent of the alleged crimes.
