Two years after the death of a Brazilian diver in the Newcastle area, police are still trying to locate his drug-smuggling accomplice.
On the anniversary of 31-year-old Bruno Borges Martins’ untimely passing, State Crime Command’s Organised Crime Squad detectives have launched another appeal to uncover the whereabouts of Jhoni Fernandes Da Silva, 32.
About 9.30am on Monday 9 May 2022, emergency services were called to the Port of Newcastle after a male diver was located unresponsive in the water with 54kg of cocaine located nearby.
Despite the efforts of witnesses and paramedics, he could not be revived.
He was later formally identified as Brazilian national Bruno Borges Martins.
Local police began inquiries, before the matter was taken over by State Crime Command’s Organised Crime Squad under Strike Force Groove.
During the course of the investigation, they have been assisted by officers from the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Australian Border Force (ABF), Northern Territory Police (NTPOL) and Queensland Police Service (QPS).
To date, two men have been charged and remain before the courts.
As inquiries continue, strike force detectives have released images of a truck that they believe may be connected to the other 32-year-old’s disappearance.
The vehicle, which is a white Mitsubishi Fuso with the NSW registration DA81PP, was last seen travelling southbound on the M4 Motorway, Pennant Hills, about 6.30pm Sunday 8 May 2022.
Detectives are also appealing for any information about a Toyota Townace van with the NSW registration WNY439, which was seen travelling with the truck.
“At the end of the day, it’s about giving answers to the family who wonder where their loved one has gone,” Commander of State Crime Command’s Organised Crime Squad Detective Superintendent Peter Faux said.
“We believe there are people out there who have information who can provide closure for the family two years after he disappeared.
“I urge anyone who has information to speak to us so that Mr Da Silva’s loved ones don’t have to spend another year wondering what happened to him.”
Investigations under Strike Force Groove are continuing.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
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