'He can't help himself': Fugitive gangster's social media tracked by police
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- An Instagram account believed to be run by a man wanted over a Sydney underworld shooting has been deactivated after it appeared in media reports.
- Globe-trotting Anthony Pele is believed to have unwittingly provided police with "incredibly valuable" information in the social media posts claiming to be from Asia, Samoa and Mexico.
- Police had been looking for Mr Pele since he fled Australia after a July 2023 shooting that claimed the life of an innocent bystander.
- A globe-trotting gangster who spent the past six months posting his locations overseas has likely given police "invaluable" information while on the run, according to a former officer.
- Fugitive Sydney underworld figure Anthony Pele has been publicly taunting his gangland rivals from abroad on social media since late 2025, despite being wanted on a murder warrant.
Police are leveraging social media to track the movements of fugitive Anthony Pele, who has been wanted since a July 2023 shooting in Sydney that resulted in the death of an innocent bystander.
Despite being on the run, Pele has been active on Instagram, posting from various international locations, including Asia, Samoa, and Mexico, which has unwittingly provided law enforcement with critical information about his whereabouts.
His social media activity has drawn attention not only for its content but also for the apparent ease with which he has taunted rivals in the underworld while evading capture. A former police officer noted that this behavior has likely given authorities valuable insights, although it raises questions about Pele's judgment and ability to remain hidden.
The recent deactivation of his Instagram account followed media reports highlighting his posts, suggesting that his online presence may have become too risky. As police continue their search for Pele, they are analyzing his social media footprint for leads that could aid in his apprehension.
This case underscores the complex interplay between social media and law enforcement efforts in tracking fugitives, particularly those involved in organized crime.