British gangland’s ‘Goldfinger,’ due to stand trial in Spain, shot dead

A BRITISH gangland figure known as ‘Goldfinger’ was shot dead, Essex police confirmed as they opened a murder investigation on July 1. John Palmer acquired his nickname when he was accused of involvement in the 1983 Brink’s-MAT gold bullion robbery, and although he was cleared the name has stuck.
Palmer’s body was discovered on June 24 at an address in Brentwood, Essex, and now police have said he died after being shot in the chest.
The 64-year-old was jailed in 2001 for masterminding a massive timeshare fraud, which accumulated £300 million from holidaymakers whose hopes were dashed. Just a month ago, he was charged with similar crimes in Spain, ranging from fraud, firearm possession and money laundering. He had been on bail for eight years, having been arrested in Tenerife in July 2007.
Essex police are now looking to speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the South Weald area of Brentwood, or who was around Sandpit Lane between 4pm and 6pm, on Wednesday June 24. The investigation team can be contacted on 01245 282103.