Suspected homicide behind Morwell man John Swiety’s mysterious disappearance

The search for missing Morwell man John Swiety has taken a dark turn since he vanished two weeks ago, as police turn their attention to a possible homicide.

Missing Morwell man John Swiety. Picture: supplied

Relatives of a suspected homicide victim are desperately searching for answers that may lead to the discovery of missing Morwell man John Swiety, who was last seen 12 days ago.

Mr Swiety, 57, was last seen near a property on Old Kent Road in Nurran, in east Gippsland, on March 17.

Police believe he has been met with foul play and his disappearance is suspicious.

His two small terrier dogs were found by a passer-by wandering near the road on the Bonang Highway, north of Orbost, on March 18.

The dogs were microchipped and authorities contacted Mr Swiety’s sister, who subsequently reported her brother missing on March 22.

Missing Morwell man John Swiety is believed to have left his Morwell address on March 17 in a white Toyota Hiace van.

Sister Lisa Swiety has appealed for the help of the public online.

“Whoever has my brother, they will find you,” Ms Swiety posted on her Facebook page.

“There is no way in a million years his doggies (would) leave him. Hold on brother, they shall find you. By the grace of God I know you shall return to us. We love you so very much. My life will be lost if you are no here.”

She also revealed Mr Swiety was king-hit in the days before he went missing.

Victoria Police said they are keen to speak to anyone with information about his movements in the days leading up to his disappearance.

John Swiety and his two pet dogs, who were found on the Bonang highway.

“Police have concern for John’s welfare as his disappearance is out of character,” a Victoria Police spokeswoman said.

“His disappearance is now being treated as suspicious and is being investigated by detectives from the Missing Persons Squad.

“Investigators are now of the belief that John has met with foul play.”

Officers believe Mr Swiety was heading to Goongerah and had left his Morwell address about 2am on March 17 in a white Toyota Hiace van.

Investigators would like to speak to anyone who saw this van travelling that day between Morwell and Goongerah.

Police are also releasing an image of this van.

He is described as about 170cm tall, caucasian with short brown hair.

Anyone who sees John is asked to call triple-0 (000) immediately.