Significant Discovery in Long-Running Search for Missing Belgian Tourist
In a major development in the long-standing investigation into the disappearance of Belgian backpacker Celine Cremer, Tasmania police have uncovered crucial evidence during an intensive two-day search operation. The discovery, made in the remote Arthur River area, includes five bones, teeth, and a Honda car key, which authorities have formally verified as belonging to the missing 31-year-old tourist.
Search Operation Yields Critical Evidence
The recent police operation focused on a location approximately 2km from Philosopher Falls, near the iconic Cradle Mountain in Tasmania's rugged northwest. This area is the last known location visited by Cremer in June 2023 before she vanished without a trace. Commander Nathan Johnston emphasised the thorough and methodical nature of the search, noting that many items were found beneath debris and embedded in the riverbed itself.
Severe weather conditions have consistently hampered search efforts over the past two-and-a-half years, with police and paramedics recently forced to camp overnight before being extracted due to challenging environmental factors. Despite these obstacles, the discovery represents a significant breakthrough in understanding what happened to the missing backpacker.
Timeline of Disappearance and Previous Discoveries
Celine Cremer was reported missing by her family on 26 June 2023, sparking an extensive search operation involving police, State Emergency Service ground crews, specialist swift water rescue personnel, drones, and helicopter support. Her car was located in the Philosopher Falls car park just one day after the missing person report was filed, indicating she had set off on a walk in the area.
The investigation gained momentum in late January when officers discovered human remains and items of clothing believed to belong to Cremer. This followed an earlier discovery in December when a bushwalking group found her mobile phone in the wilderness. Among the clothing items recovered were a polar fleece jacket, thermal top, and bra, all consistent with what the Belgian tourist was believed to have been carrying during her walk.
Ongoing Investigation and Family Communication
Police continue to maintain regular communication with Cremer's family regarding search progress and developments in the case. Commander Johnston confirmed that authorities are keeping the family informed as forensic testing of the remains continues. The investigation into her disappearance will ultimately fall under the jurisdiction of the state coroner, who will be responsible for determining the circumstances surrounding this tragic case.
Forensic experts are now conducting detailed analysis of the newly discovered evidence, which may provide crucial insights into the timeline and nature of Cremer's disappearance. The verification of the car key as belonging to the missing backpacker represents a particularly significant piece of evidence that links the discovered items directly to her.
This case highlights the challenges of search and rescue operations in Tasmania's remote wilderness areas, where difficult terrain and unpredictable weather conditions can complicate investigations for extended periods. The persistence of search teams over nearly three years demonstrates the commitment to resolving such missing person cases, even when faced with substantial obstacles.
