New Case in Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program

Another case in Nova Scotia's Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program was announced today, March 23.

The Department of Justice will offer cash rewards of up to $150,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals responsible for the following case:

• Sergei Kostin of the Halifax Regional Municipality, missing person

Sergei Kostin, a 40-year-old taxi driver, for Bob's Taxi, was dispatched in the afternoon of January 17.to pick up passengers at 21 Gaston Road, Dartmouth. He has not been seen or heard from since. Investigators are interested in speaking with two males who are believed to be his customers at this location.

On January 20, his burned taxi was located at the end of Downey Road, North Preston. He drove a green Impala, licence plate DPS 968, car number 367.

An extensive search of the surrounding area failed to locate him. At the time of his disappearance, Mr. Kostin was wearing brown boots, jeans and a green short style jacket. His personal banking and communication devices have not been accessed since his disappearance.

Justice Minister and Attorney General Cecil Clarke said he hopes the program will encourage people with relevant information to come forward.

"The Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program is important because it reminds Nova Scotians of the responsibility we all share in terms of building safer communities," said Mr. Clarke. "It gives us an opportunity to help bring criminals to justice."

Those who do come forward with information will be expected to provide their name and contact information. In addition, they may be called to testify in court. All calls to the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program will be traced and recorded.

The Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program was launched in October 2006 as another tool for law enforcement to use in solving crime.