Police launch extensive search for body of missing man allegedly shot dead

Police today are conducting a large-scale search of a rural property north-west of Sydney for the body of an elderly man whom was believed to have been shot dead.

Edwin Dobbin, an 82-year-old miniature horse breeder, was reported missing from his home in Leppington, in the city’s south-west on September 25.

Despite police investigations he could not be found.

During inquiries, detectives identified a 67-year-old man, known to the missing man, who had allegedly told police conflicting information about the incident multiple times.

He was arrested in Smithfield yesterday, and officers later raided a property at Upper Colo in the Hawkesbury region, where the body of the 82-year-old is believed to be buried.

In an update today, Acting Superintendent Tim Calman said a crime scene had been established and a search for the body was underway, involving forensic officers.

“I would expect it to be an extensive search, probably will go over a couple of days.”

He said the extent of the relationship between the two men is still being investigated.

Police are also yet to establish the ownership of the property at Upper Colo.

Calman said investigators are also working with the distraught family of the 82-year-old man.

“Police spoke with the family yesterday … obviously in these circumstances they are very, very upset … Camden police continue to work with them as this investigation unfolds.”

Police hope to learn more about the cause of death and any movement of the corpse when a forensic examination at the property is completed.

The 67-year-old was refused bail and is scheduled to front court today.