Police tactical response group trackers join search for man missing north of Broome
/ By Esse Deves and Gareth McKnightA team of specialist police officers has flown to Western Australia's north to help search for a man missing for three days in bushland north of Broome.
Police and State Emergency Services personnel began the search for Zane Peter John Stevens, 21, at the weekend after he was reported missing on Saturday.
Police say the grey 2023 Toyota LandCruiser he was travelling in became bogged near Coconut Wells, 30 kilometres north of Broome.
Mr Stevens set off on foot to seek assistance but he has not contacted family or friends.
"We believe he's left the vehicle on foot in search of assistance, but he has not been seen or heard of since that time," Kimberley Police Superintendent Steve Thompson said.
"He was with another gentleman when they both became bogged, but they became separated while seeking assistance."
On Monday morning Tactical Response Group trackers arrived in the Kimberley to assist with the search.
The specialised police unit will join search crews to track any signs of a vehicle or human footprints in the area.
"He was unprepared for this — it's rough and difficult terrain, which is why we're prioritising the search," Superintendent Thompson said.
Authorities are also using a drone and helicopter to search for Mr Stevens from the air.
He is described as 182 centimetres tall, with a medium build and tanned complexion.
It is believed he was wearing black shorts with no T-shirt or shoes.
As the weather cools in the Kimberley, tourists and locals flock to beaches in and around Broome.
Coconut Wells a popular swimming and boating spot.
Mr Stevens's disappearance comes after travellers were urged by authorities to take caution when exploring the Kimberley region, following a tourist being rescued by helicopter in Kununurra.