Police searches are set to continue next week for a monk who vanished from an island monastery in Orkney, after a church statement indicated he is presumed dead.
Justin Evans, known as Brother Ignatius, a 24-year-old from New Zealand and a member of the Redemptorist Community, was last seen at the Golgotha Monastery on Papa Stronsay just before midnight on Saturday, April 11.
The Diocese of Aberdeen has expressed profound sadness regarding the "disappearance and presumed death" of the young monk.
Police Scotland confirmed on Thursday that efforts to locate him would persist across Papa Stronsay and neighbouring islands in the coming days. He was last observed wearing a white robe.
Inspector David Hall said: “Our thoughts are very much with Justin’s family at what is a very difficult time.
“Extensive and detailed searches using local police resources and partner agencies have been carried out on the islands of Papa Stronsay and Stronsay, including along the shorelines.
“Coastal areas on other nearby islands will continue to be searched by local and specialist police resources and partners.
“Any further relevant information reported to police about Justin and the circumstances leading up to him going missing will be acted upon.
“At this time there is nothing to suggest any suspicious circumstances or criminality.”
Earlier, the Diocese of Aberdeen said Brother Ignatius “was known for his humility and charity”.
A spokesperson said: “The Diocese has learned with deep sadness of the disappearance and presumed death of Justin Evans, also known as Brother Ignatius, aged 24, a member of the Redemptorist Community on the island of Papa Stronsay.
“It is believed that he came to harm in conditions involving the sea.”
