Three charged with torture and murder of cyber expert
Three men have been charged with the murder of a cybersecurity expert who police say was tortured at multiple locations before his body was dumped on the side of the road.
Brisbane father Andrew Burow disappeared from a Brisbane flat on August 24 before his body was found in Maidenwell in the city’s north on September 2.
Police said the 56-year-old man, described as compassionate, loving, loyal and generous, was taken to eight different locations and tortured before he died.
During the investigation, burnt alcohol wipes, zip ties, a mobile phone and a piece of paper with details of Mr Burow’s family were found in a fire pit at a rural property.
Detective Acting Inspector Murray O’Connell said investigators were working around the clock to comb a significant part of south-east Queensland to find Mr Burow, who despite serious concerns they had not given up hope of finding alive.
“The report that led to the location of Mr. Burow’s body shows how important every report from the media and tips given to police by members of the public report can be in solving a larger piece of the puzzle for investigations,” he said.
Mr Burow’s devastated family asked for privacy in a statement, saying “terrible things can happen to good people”.
“Andrew will be remembered as a caring and loving father, a loyal and generous son and brother, and someone who was always willing to give people a second chance,” the family statement said. The statement was included.
“We will miss his enthusiasm for life, entrepreneurial mindset and willingness to try ideas.”
Three men, aged 26, 38 and 57, were charged with murder, kidnapping, extortion and abuse of power by tampering with a dead body.
Police will allege the 26-year-old North Lakes man and Mr Burow knew each other.
“It will be alleged the men tortured Andrew at various locations and killed him around August 25, leaving his remains near Brooklands Pimpimbudgee Road in Maidenwell,” Det Insp O’Connell said.
The trio will not be able to apply for bail and will be remanded in custody when they appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
