A gunman who shot dead a father-of-two in a 2009 road rage attack had loyal protectors linked to crime and bikie gangs, Queensland police say.
The family of Omega Ruston is still fighting for justice after he was shot in the stomach on the side of the Gold Coast Highway at Burleigh Heads on Australia Day, 12 years ago.
He was gunned down after pulling over to talk to a group of men who'd stopped behind him in a small maroon sedan after an incident on the highway.
Two shots were fired from the rear passenger seat, one of them fatally wounding the 32-year-old construction worker. Police say it was a random attack.
On Monday, detectives said the gunman and his companions were believed to have links to crime and bikie gangs.
"We believe they were linked to Gold Coast and Sydney chapters of organised crime syndicates, and outlaw motorcycle gangs," Detective Inspector Chris Ahearn told reporters.
He said the people the men turned to for help after the slaying were also believed to have links to those gangs.
"(They) are being investigated as accessories after the fact to murder, which is a life imprisonment offence in Queensland."
Det Insp Ahearn has launched a multi-state appeal for new information saying loyalties change and new witnesses have been identified on the Gold Coast, Sydney and elsewhere.
"We are seeking assistance from anyone who is or was a member, associate, family member, or spouse of an outlaw motorcycle gang member linked to this shooting.
"Relationships and loyalties change. People who were once scared may now no longer be. We would encourage these persons to come forward. This may be their chance at redemption."
Mr Ruston's brothers, Nicholas and Chris Ruston, made an emotional plea for information alongside their father, Phil.
"His children have had to grow up without their father being part of their lives," Nicholas said.
He had a message for those involved in his brother's murder.
"Please know the man you are protecting is a coward. To the man that shot Omega, the opportunity to right your wrongs does not come around often. You need to make amends.
"My brother will not grow old but you will grow old forever as a coward. Turn yourself in before it's too late."
Witnesses reported seeing three men of middle eastern appearance in the maroon vehicle involved in the shooting, which happened on the highway near the intersection with 5th Avenue about 10.25pm on Monday, January 26, 2009.
One rear passenger was seen holding a black semi-automatic style pistol. After the shooting the car left the scene travelling south.
Australian Associated Press
