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Operation Sabine

Police Scotland are appealing for information in relation to the murder of Alistair Wilson that occurred on the 28 November 2004 at his home address in Crescent Road, Nairn.


Details of Incident

Police Scotland are issuing a new appeal for information on 20th anniversary of the murder of Alistair Wilson

A team of 14 officers are now working on Operation Sabine, the reinvestigation of Alistair’s death, with more officers being drafted on to the enquiry in the coming weeks.

The team, drawn from a range of specialisms across Police Scotland, including complex investigations, homicide and murder enquiries, forensics and intelligence gathering, are dedicated to the investigation into Alistair’s murder.

Dad-of-two Mr Wilson died after being shot on the doorstep of his home in the town’s Crescent Road on 28 November, 2004.

In September this year the Lord Advocate announced a reinvestigation of the case with new teams of officers and prosecutors.

Detectives will examine all evidence gathered over the last 20 years, as well as investigating new opportunities for fresh lines of enquiry, such as advances in technology and forensic testing. Around 10,000 documents, including approximately 6,000 statements will be re-examined, along with nearly 14,000 actions carried out by police since the shooting. 

Detective Chief Superintendent Suzanne Chow said: “The team reinvestigating Alistair’s murder are absolutely committed to doing everything they can to get justice for his family.

“We are exploring all new opportunities available to us, including advanced technology around forensics and DNA analysis.

“Alistair’s wife Veronica, their two sons and wider family, have suffered 20 years of pain and their unanswered questions about why he was murdered and who was responsible remain.

“The thoughts of everyone at Police Scotland are very much with them at this time and we are keeping them informed of any updates we have as the reinvestigation progresses.

“I am determined that the passage of time is no barrier to justice and we are absolutely committed to finding out who was responsible and bringing them to justice.

“A significant anniversary such as this will prompt further discussion both in the local community and across the country around this investigation and I would urge anyone with information – no matter how small or insignificant they think it might be - to speak to us and help get justice for Alistair’s family.”

We are appealing for any information including photographs or CCTV footage that may support our investigation into this incident.

Contact Information

Anyone who has any information in connection with the incident (including footage) can contact Police on either 101, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or alternatively by submitting information via the link at the bottom of this page.