Suspects Appear in Court Following Discovery of Body
Two men have been remanded in custody after appearing at Greenock Sheriff Court on Wednesday, charged with the murder of 50-year-old Robert Best.
Andrew Brodie, 51, and Stephen Shields, 44, both from Greenock, faced two separate charges: murder and attempting to defeat the ends of justice. The pair made no plea during their initial court appearance.
Body Found Near High Mathernock Farm
The investigation began when Police Scotland were called to a field near High Mathernock Farm in Kilmacolm at approximately 9.20am on Tuesday. The location is around 15 miles west of Glasgow.
The body discovered at the scene was later formally identified as Robert Best. Mr Best, who was 50, had been reported missing from the Greenock area on the same day his body was found.
Ongoing Police Investigation and Appeal
Detective Chief Inspector Graham McCreadie, leading the investigation, expressed that the force's thoughts are with Robert's family and friends. He confirmed that the family is being supported as the inquiry continues.
In a significant development, police are investigating a possible link to a reported disturbance on Lansbury Street in Greenock. This incident is believed to have occurred between 11pm on Monday and 3am on Tuesday.
DCI McCreadie issued a public appeal for information, stating: "An extensive investigation is being carried out and I am asking anyone who was in the Lansbury Street area or near High Mathernock Farm at those times to get in touch."
He further urged anyone with potential evidence to come forward, adding: "If you have CCTV, private footage or dashcam footage that may have captured something, please contact us. Any information, no matter how small it may seem, could be vital."
A third man, aged 45, was also arrested in connection with an assault related to the case. He has been released pending further enquiries.
Both Brodie and Shields were remanded in custody and are scheduled to return to the dock within the next week.
