MISSING PERSON ALERT: Local Community Urged to Assist Police Search for Missing Porirua Man

The Porirua Police Department is urging locals to assist in the ongoing search for 77-year-old Graham Russell Smith, who has been missing since early evening on November 10. Smith was last seen walking on Doctor Track on the Colonial Knob walkway, a popular area with multiple walkways and mountain bike trails.

Background

Smith is described as being around 165cm tall, of slight build, and wearing a blue puffer jacket and brown corduroy pants at the time of his disappearance. He suffers from dementia and has difficulty hearing, which may make it harder for him to be seen or heard by others.

Search Efforts

A significant search operation is currently underway, with police and local authorities working together to locate Smith. The search area includes industrial and commercial areas near Rangituhi/Colonial Knob, as well as residential neighborhoods in Elsdon, Kenepuru Landing, and the western hills of Tawa.

Residents and Workers Asked to Check Yards

Police are specifically asking workers in the industrial and commercial area to check their yards, outbuildings, sheds, and work sites for any signs of Smith. Similarly, residents in the affected areas are encouraged to check their own yards, including gardens, sheds, and outbuildings.

Information Available

If you have seen Graham or know where he is, please contact the police immediately by calling 111 and referencing file number 241111/3559. Information can also be provided online or by calling 105.

Helping to Locate Graham Smith

The police are urging anyone who may have seen or interacted with Graham to come forward and provide any information they may have. This includes:

• Seeing him walking alone on the Colonial Knob walkway
• Noticing his distinctive blue puffer jacket and brown corduroy pants
• Hearing a loud noise or disturbance in the area at the time of his disappearance
• Being approached by Graham or receiving a message from him

Dementia Awareness

The police are also reminding the public that people with dementia may have difficulty being seen or heard, especially if they are walking alone. If you see someone who may be missing due to dementia, do not approach them. Instead, contact the police immediately and provide as much information as possible.

Community Response

The community in Porirua is coming together to support the search efforts for Graham Smith. The local business community has pledged to assist with the search, while residents are being encouraged to share any information they may have on social media using the hashtag #FindGraham.

Next Steps

The police will continue to update the public on the progress of the search and any new developments. In the meantime, we urge everyone in Porirua to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information to the authorities immediately.

We are grateful for the support of the community in this time of need and hope that Graham is safely found soon.