Officers coordinating the search for missing teaching assistant Nathan Clarke have confirmed that the search has been called off.

It’s been sixteen days since Nathan was last seen walking towards the water’s edge on Seven Mile  Beach near Calico Jack’s.

Hundreds of civilian volunteers have worked alongside RCIPS officers during the search and specialist dogs were brought onto the Island from Metro-Dade last week. However, despite the tens of thousands of man hours spent searching the land and sea, no trace of Nathan has been found. His cell phone was recovered offshore on the Wednesday following his disappearance.

Chief Inspector Richard Barrow, who has been overseeing the search operation, said: “We have completely exhausted the search areas at land and at sea, but unfortunately we have not been able to find Nathan.  I would like to thank all of the volunteers who came out day after day and tirelessly assisted our officers during the searches. I know that Nathan’s parents, his brother and sister, his fiancée Lisa and her parents are also very grateful to all those who have helped and shown support during this difficult time.”

Although the land and sea searches have been called off officers stress that the investigation into what happened to Nathan is still very active and appeal for people on the Island to remain vigilant and to report immediately any information that may assist police with their enquiries. The families will continue to be kept fully informed of progress.