The search for a missing Kelvin Grove cybersecurity worker has taken a disturbing turn, with police charging two men with torture as investigations continue across multiple locations in Queensland.
Andrew Burow, 56, vanished from his Lorimer Terrace home on August 20, though his disappearance wasn’t reported to police until four days later on August 24. The father and cybersecurity professional has been living in the inner-Brisbane suburb for nine years, close to the Queensland University of Technology campus.
Police have now charged 38-year-old Anthony Perrett and 26-year-old Billy Howard with torture in connection with Mr Burow’s disappearance. Both men faced Maroochydore Magistrates Court earlier this week, with proceedings adjourned.
The investigation has rapidly expanded beyond Brisbane, with Queensland Police establishing an incident centre under Operation Veer. Crime scenes have been declared at multiple properties, including Mr Burow’s Kelvin Grove home and locations on the Sunshine Coast.
Forensic teams have been conducting extensive searches at a Kokoda Avenue property in Bli Bli, with neighbours reporting concerning observations. Local residents recalled seeing a fire burning at the property early Tuesday morning that appeared unusually dark and carried the smell of chemicals.
The investigation has extended to rural areas, with additional crime scenes declared at Black Pinch Road in Pomona and Kamala Drive in nearby Lake MacDonald, both locations inland from Noosa.
Detective Acting Superintendent Craig Williams confirmed police are working around the clock to locate Mr Burow. According to police sources cited by Queensland Police, the disappearance is considered completely out of character for the 56-year-old, prompting serious concerns from both investigators and family members.
Mr Burow works as a cybersecurity manager and has extensive experience as a project manager across various companies, holding qualifications in IT and management. Property records show he owns multiple properties in the Brisbane area.
Before his disappearance, Mr Burow had contacted a real estate agent about potentially selling his house, though the significance of this action remains unclear in the investigation.
Friends who spoke to media outlets described Mr Burow as genuinely friendly and someone who cared deeply about people. They expressed hope he would be found safe.
A neighbour in Kelvin Grove told media she found it concerning that she hadn’t seen Mr Burow around recently, noting the family she lives with also hadn’t heard anything.
Police describe Mr Burow as Caucasian with a fair complexion, sandy to reddish hair, and bluish-green eyes.
Brisbane Region Crime Coordinator Detective Acting Superintendent Craig Williams emphasised the thoroughness of the investigation, with officers remaining committed to working continuously until Mr Burow is located.
The Kelvin Grove community, known for its proximity to QUT and mix of students and long-term residents, has been following developments closely as the investigation unfolds.
Anyone with information about Mr Burow’s whereabouts is urged to contact Queensland Police immediately.
Published 28-August-2025
