Police in the Republic of Ireland have begun searching a forested area in Omeath in County Louth for the body of a Belfast woman.
Saoirse Smyth who is 28 was last seen in April 2017. Her body has never been found and her family has been left ‘devastated.’
An Garda Síochána is assisting the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
Saoirse was originally from Belfast and disappeared in April 2017. Enquires have led police to believe that she has been murdered.
She was last seen in the Belfast area on April 11th, 2017 and police believe she returned to Omeath, where she was living at the time.
Since her disappearance there has been no contact with family or friends which is highly unusual.
Saoirse had very distinctive red hair and was approximately 5ft tall and of slim build.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Darren McCartney said police are appealing for information about the circumstances leading to Saoirse’s disappearance and murder.
“We are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who had seen Saoirse or was in contact with her since January 2017.
“Saoirse’s family have been left devastated and they deserve to know what has happened to her. Anyone with any information about her disappearance should contact Detectives at the PSNI incident room Ladas Drive on 101 or 02890700355.
“Alternatively information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime,” Detective Chief Inspector Darren McCartney.