Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services (NTPFES), with the assistance of concerned local community members and volunteers, have suspended a significant six day Search and Rescue Operation for a missing 79-year-old Aboriginal man in Urapunga Community.
On Wednesday 16 October 2019, the man failed to return from his daily walk causing his son to raise the alarm. Urapunga Community members immediately began a search of the local area which continued until police were notified the following day.
Considerable resources were deployed with police officers from Ngukurr, local community rangers and community members all working together, in extremely exhausting hot and dry conditions, to locate the man.
NTPFES utilised the services of Specialist Search Coordinators, helicopters, local rangers and drones to maximise the effectiveness of the search in hope of a successful outcome.
Due to the time the male has been missing, and the extent of land covered by search teams, the Search Co-ordinator has made the difficult decision to suspend further search operations at this time.
Immediate family members of the man have been advised of this decision. They are continuing to assist police with enquiries.
Members of the public are reminded that current weather conditions in the northern region of the Northern Territory are extremely unforgiving and hot. Please take caution when travelling in remote areas and always notify friends or family of your travel intentions.
Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of the missing man is urged to notify police on 131 444 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Please quote reference number 9107672.
