A MURDER investigation has been launched after the disappearance of a Belfast woman in the Republic of Ireland over a year ago.
Saoirse Smyth, 28, was last seen in Belfast in January 2017 but her movements have been traced to Omeath, Co. Louth in the Republic - where she had been living at the time - up to April 2017.
Gardaí have been assisting the PSNI with their ongoing investigation and searched an address in Omeath today.
A 40-year-old man was arrested by the PSNI on Wednesday evening in Newry on suspicion of the 28-year-old's murder.
He remains in custody and is being questioned at Musgrave Serious Crime Suite in Belfast.
Appeal
DCI Geoff Boyce said: "The investigation into Saoirse’s disappearance has progressed and while keeping an open mind I now believe that the potential exists for Saoirse to have sadly been murdered.
"Saoirse was seen in the Belfast area in April 2017. She had very distinctive red hair and has not had any contact with her family or friends during this period, including on significant dates such as her birthday and Christmas, and this is very unusual.
"Saoirse also hasn’t responded to any of her family’s pleas on social media. This along, with other information obtained during the Police investigation now leads me to believe that Saoirse may have been murdered.
"Saoirse’s last movements in April 2017 can be traced to Omeath, where she was living at that time.
"I am making an appeal today for information about the circumstances leading to Saoirse’s disappearance. Her family deserve to know what has happened to her.
"I am particularly interested in speaking with anyone who has seen Saoirse or who has contact with her since January 2017".
DCI Boyce added: "I have been in contact with her family who understandably have been left devastated and trained Police Family Liaison Officers are supporting the family at this very difficult time."
Ms Smyth's family issued a short statement through the PSNI, which read: "Somebody out there must know something about what has happened to Saoirse and we would plead with anyone who knows anything to contact the Police.
"Saoirse if you are out there, please contact your family and let us know you are okay."
Anyone with information is urged to contact detectives on 101 from the UK, +44 28 9065 0222 from ROI or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
