Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad, acting on new information, have interviewed five people over the past week as part of the ongoing investigation into the 2002 disappearance of Wangaratta woman Kath Bergamin.
Kath disappeared on the night of Sunday, 18 August 2002 from the Brien Crescent, Wangaratta home that she shared with a friend.
She had separated from her husband, with whom she had previously resided in the Cheshunt area with their three children, only months before her disappearance.
Detectives believe 37-year-old Kath met with foul-play, but her body has never been found.
Between Friday, 11 September and Thursday, 17 September detectives have interviewed five people as part of their investigation.
Those people include a 60-year-old Cheshunt man, a 51-year-old Wangaratta man, a 37-year-old Melbourne man, a 33-year-old Docker woman and a 30-year-old Yoogali (NSW) man.
The five were subsequently released pending further enquiries.
Over the years, detectives have worked tirelessly to locate Kath’s body and determine how she died and who is responsible. This latest development is further confirmation of Victoria Police’s commitment to providing answers to Kath’s family and community.
DNA testing and forensic re-examination has also been conducted on a number of exhibits found at her home.
In March 2017 police received an anonymous letter where the writer provided very specific information about Kath’s murder, including who was involved.
Detectives are still keen to hear from the writer of the letter who, as yet, remains unknown, and this letter continues to form a key part of the current Missing Persons Squad investigation.
A $1 million reward remains on offer for information leading to the apprehension and subsequent conviction of the person or persons responsible for Kath’s murder.
In appropriate cases, the Director of Public Prosecutions may also consider, according to established guidelines, the granting of indemnification from prosecution to any person who provides information as to the identity of the principal offender or offenders in this matter.
Police are continuing to appeal for anyone with information about Kath’s disappearance and who is responsible to come forward.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppers.com.au
