Authorities intensified their search efforts over the weekend as attention turned to a remote rural property in central western New South Wales, amid growing questions about the possible whereabouts of a wanted man linked to a serious incident in Lake Cargelligo.
On Saturday, specialist police units were seen entering a privately owned station north-west of the town, marking another significant development in a large-scale operation that has now stretched into several days. The convoy included tactical response vehicles, unmarked police units, and medical support teams, underscoring the seriousness with which the situation is being treated.
The property itself sits in a vast, sparsely populated area characterised by open bushland, rough access roads, and extreme summer heat. Observers noted signs of forced entry at the main gate, which had been temporarily secured again after police activity. While authorities have not confirmed whether the location was directly linked to the individual they are seeking, the deployment suggested it formed part of a wider strategy to eliminate potential hiding places.
The caretaker of the property later confirmed that he was familiar with the man at the centre of the investigation, explaining that he had worked in the broader region several years earlier. According to the caretaker, the individual had extensive knowledge of the landscape and was experienced in outdoor work, making him familiar with remote terrain and seasonal conditions.
“He knows the country out there very well,” the caretaker said, speaking generally about the area. “If someone wanted to stay out of sight for a time, they would understand how challenging this land can be — but also how to move through it.”
Police officials have acknowledged that the individual’s past work history may be relevant to their inquiries. During a briefing on Saturday morning, senior officers said the search area had been expanded and would continue to evolve as new information emerged. They also confirmed they had not ruled out the possibility that the person of interest could be receiving assistance from others, though no further details were provided.
Throughout the day, police vehicles were seen moving along dirt roads near conservation areas, while aerial patrols continued overhead. Residents in surrounding towns reported an increased police presence and said they had been advised to remain alert while going about daily activities.
Community members have largely responded with cooperation, according to police. Officers praised locals for providing information and respecting safety advice as investigations continue. At the same time, authorities stressed that there was no formal lockdown in place and that residents were free to move about, provided they exercised caution.
The search comes amid renewed scrutiny of earlier legal proceedings involving the individual, including previous court appearances and bail conditions. Police have emphasised that such decisions are made following formal risk assessments based on information available at the time.
As temperatures climbed across the region, officials confirmed that conditions were adding complexity to the operation, both for search teams and for anyone attempting to move undetected through the area.
For the Lake Cargelligo community, the situation remains deeply unsettling. Many residents have described a sense of unease as the search continues, coupled with a desire for clarity and resolution.
Authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to contact police and reminded the public not to approach anyone believed to be connected to the investigation. The operation, they say, will continue until all lines of inquiry have been thoroughly examined.