Police locate belongings of missing journalist Dom Phillips in Amazon
Brazilian police claim to have located items owned by missing British journalist Dom Phillips.
Mr Phillips, 57, and indigenous expert Bruno Pereira, 41, went missing more than a week ago after trekking into a lawless part of the Amazon.
A backpack belonging to the journalist and a health identification card in Mr Pereira’s name are among the items.
The boots of both men are also said to have been retrieved.
Authorities were initially criticised for their “sluggish” response after the men were reported missing.
In a teary video message Mr Phillip’s wife Alessandra Sampaio urged them to help find them.
"Even if I don't find the love of my life alive, they have to be found, please intensify their search," Ms Sampaio said.
Her plea was in turn shared by soccer great Pele, who commended Mr Phillips and Mr Pereira for their work to highlight conservation of the Amazon.
Men threatened before venturing into Amazon
Prior to their disappearance, the duo are alleged to have been threatened by armed men.
Researching a book on conservation, Mr Phillips is believed to have strayed into a region notorious for cocaine trafficking and unlawful mining, logging, hunting and fishing.
The region is home to over 20 indigenous groups, which have come under increasing threat of violence since far-right leaning President Jair Bolsonaro was elected.
Since taking office in 2019, deforestation and burning in the Amazon are at their highest levels in a decade.
The search effort now involves Brazil's military, the police and indigenous volunteers.
GoFundMe raises thousands for families of missing men
A GoFundMe page set up to help the families of the missing men has raised almost USD$20,000 (A$28,000).
“Cash is tight now for him and his Brazilian wife, Alessandra Sampaio,” it reads.
“The couple is relying on Dom to finish the book draft to receive their next paycheck — now, it is not clear when that will be possible.”
with Reuters
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