A search and rescue team from Northern Ireland has travelled to Spain to help in the search for a missing west Belfast dad.
John Hardy, also known as John George, travelled to Spain three weeks ago to visit friends. He was last in touch with his family on December 14 when he drove from Alicante to Benidorm.
The alarm was raised on December 18 as the 37-year-old missed his flight home to spend Christmas with his kids. His mobile phone has been off since December 14, prompting his family and friends to travel to the holiday hotspot in search of him.
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Spanish police believe John, a dad-of-two, was killed shortly after December 14. His family say they won’t rest until his body is recovered and brought back home to Belfast.
On Wednesday, a team from K9 Search and Rescue travelled to Alicante to help with the search for John. Posting on social media, a spokesperson for K9 Search & Rescue NI said: “Seven of our team and one K9 are on their way to Alicante, Spain from various airports, in the search for a missing man from Northern Ireland.
“We will join Evolsar colleagues from SAR Team, also with a K9. We hope to update you on our progress.”
Family searches are underway for John Hardy, also known as John George, who never flew home for Christmas
(Image: Family photo)
Police in Northern Ireland have said they are also continuing to liaise with the family. The PSNI has “made an offer of assistance to police in Spain” as officers there continue to investigate John’s disappearance.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the PSNI said they “will assist with any local enquiries as requested” by Spanish investigators.
In an emotional video posted on Facebook on New Year’s Day, John’s father, Billy, said: “Still no joy with John. This is going on too long. Please I beg you from the bottom of my heart, just give me him back and we’re out of here.
“I’m staying until I get him. Please just give me my son. That’s all I want, just my son.”
John’s family has launched a GoFundMe page to help raise money towards the search, which has already raised more than £23,000 so far.
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