Murder cops to investigate man ‘suspicious’ disappearance

Police have announced a grim update in the search for a man missing from a remote outback town.

Homicide detectives will take over the search for a man missing for almost a month from a remote town in southwestern Western Australia.

Raymond Smith was last seen about 5pm on December 7 in Greenbushes, a remote timber and mining town more than 240km from Perth.

Police said the 63-year-old had not been in contact with his family or friends since December 7, which they believe was “out of character”.

On Tuesday, police revealed the homicide squad would be taking over the search and that the disappearance was being treated as suspicious.

Raymond Smith was last seen about 5pm on December 7 in Greenbushes. Picture: WA Police

“(Mr Raymond) is described as 172cm tall, slim build, shoulder length hair and a full beard with a moustache,” police said.

“Anyone who sights Mr Smith or has information regarding his whereabouts, is asked to call police immediately on 131 444.”

The announcement comes after a public appeal by police in early December to try and local Mr Smith.

The ABC reported police had attended the man’s home over the New Year’s period as part of their investigation.

Originally published as Murder cops to investigate man ‘suspicious’ disappearance