An extensive search and rescue operation for two missing British hikers, Aziz Ziriat, 36, and Samuel Harris, 35, from London, who went missing in the Dolomite Mountains in Italy on 1 January, has been called off for the day. On 6 January, the alarm was raised after the pair failed to check into their flight home. However, on Wednesday, Italian rescue teams announced that they had found a body, which is “unfortunately lifeless, buried under the snow” and believed to be that of Mr Harris. The search continued through Thursday, but the bad weather conditions prompted the Italian rescue teams to temporarily suspend the search.
On Friday, the rescue services reported that the search for Aziz Ziriat has not led to any positive results. The search was hampered by bad weather conditions and compromised visibility at altitude. However, they are now deciding which search strategy to adopt for Saturday. More than 50 personnel from various emergency services are still involved in the search, including Alpine Rescue, Guardia di Finanza Rescue, Carabinieri, and the local fire brigade.
The body, which is believed to be that of Samuel Harris, was discovered by rescuers at the foot of a rock face on Carè Alto Mountain near Trento, at an altitude of roughly 2,400m above sea level. The exact cause of death is still unclear. The discovery was made at the spot where a phone signal was last recorded from one of the men. Despite the discovery of Mr Harris’s body, there is still hope for Aziz Ziriat’s survival. The rescue teams are continuing their efforts to locate him, bringing hope to his family and friends
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