South Australian police have launched an intensified search operation for missing Walker Flat man Gus Lamont, with plans to drain a dam on his rural property as concerns for the 73-year-old's welfare grow.
The desperate search entered its fifth day on Thursday, with Major Crime detectives and specialised police resources scouring the 40-hectare property in the Murraylands region, approximately 80 kilometres northeast of Adelaide.
"We will be draining the dam on the property to conclusively rule out that Mr Lamont is not in that body of water," a police spokesperson confirmed, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the investigation.
Family's Heartbreaking Plea
Mr Lamont's distraught family has made an emotional public appeal for information regarding his whereabouts. The 73-year-old was last seen at his Walker Flat home around 9pm last Saturday night.
His daughter, Sarah Lamont, described her father as "a much-loved father and grandfather who wouldn't just disappear." She added, "We're desperately worried and just want him home safe. If anyone has seen anything, no matter how small it seems, please contact police."
Extensive Ground and Air Search
The search operation has involved multiple agencies working in challenging conditions:
- Police divers conducting underwater searches
- PolAir helicopter performing aerial reconnaissance
- Local CFS volunteers assisting with ground searches
- Dog operations unit deployed to the property
- Major Crime detectives coordinating the investigation
Local residents have described Mr Lamont as a quiet man who kept to himself but was well-known in the small riverland community. Neighbours have joined the search effort, combing nearby paddocks and riverbanks.
Concerns Grow for Welfare
Police have expressed serious concerns for Mr Lamont's welfare due to his age and the length of time he has been missing. The elderly man requires medication that he does not have with him.
Investigators are treating the property as a crime scene as they work to piece together Mr Lamont's movements before his disappearance. Forensic officers have been examining the home and surrounding areas for clues.
Anyone with information about Mr Lamont's whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers immediately. Police are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who may have seen unusual activity in the Walker Flat area between Saturday night and Sunday morning.
