By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

The body of an elderly Sweeting’s Cay man reported missing this week is believed to have been discovered yesterday afternoon following an extensive search conducted by police and residents in the community.

Supt Stephen Rolle, police press officer, reported that sometime around 3pm on Thursday, police found an adult male in his early 60s unresponsive about 200ft among the mangroves in a swampy area.

Although no official identification has been released, The Tribune understands that the deceased is believed to be a close relative of a local government official on that island.

According to Supt Rolle, police received reports around 6.30pm on Wednesday of a missing adult male in his early 60s who suffered from a mental condition.

An extensive search was launched, using drones and police divers. Residents and family members also assisted police during a search on foot of the area, without any positive results.

On Thursday, Supt Rolle said police continued their search in a swampy area where a body of a male fitting the description of the missing man was recovered.

The body was transported to the local clinic in McLeans Town where it was examined by a medical doctor and pronounced dead.

Mr Rolle noted that a missing person’s flyer was prepared, but just before it was released to the public, the discovery was made.

He thanked family members and residents who assisted in the search.

Police are awaiting the result of an autopsy to determine the cause of death. The matter is under active investigation.