South Australia police have detailed their efforts to search for missing four-year-old Gus Lamont in mine shafts surrounding the area he disappeared from.
An enormous search was sparked after Gus was first reported missing from his family’s sheep station on September 27.
Since then, police have conducted a ground and air search of Oak Park Station and its surrounds and also drained a large dam to eliminate the possibility that the boy drowned.
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Police have now concluded an inspection of six mine shafts located between 5.5km and 12km from the Oak Park house.
In a press release, South Australia police said this part of the search concluded without finding “any evidence to assist in the investigation into Gus’ disappearance”.
“Several of the shafts were relatively shallow and could be visually inspected but the remainder were up to 20 metres deep and specialised equipment was required to complete the searches,” the statement said.
Police released some video footage of the search.
As of Wednesday, a ground search is continuing to be conducted 10km away from the homestead, which is outside the 5.5km radius that has already been subject to extensive ground searching.
The estimated search area covered so far is more than 470 sqkm.
Police confirmed that Gus’ family have been advised of the results of the search and are receiving support for a victim contact officer.
Task Force Horizon officers have “not ruled out returning to the property as the investigation continues”.
“Task Force Horizon is conducting multiple lines of inquiry to locate Gus Lamont. These investigations have not uncovered any evidence of foul play,” police said.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Linda Williams has reiterated a commitment to continue investigating the boy’s disappearance.
“We are determined to explore every avenue in an effort to locate Gus Lamont and provide some closure for his family,’’ she said
