Martin Kelly: PSNI say they remain determined to discover what happened to man on 20th anniversary of his disappearance

Police say they remain determined to discover what happened to a man who went missing from Belfast 20 years ago.

And they have made a fresh appeal for information regarding the investigation into the disappearance of Martin Kelly in January 2006.

Detective Inspector Stephen Harvey said: “The disappearance of Martin has had a profound impact on his family. Martin, who worked as a plumber and a part-time bar man in the Priory Inn at Holywood, worked on New Year’s Eve 2005 and then went on to two house parties with friends.

“On New Year’s Day, he and his friends went to Pat’s Bar in Garmoyle Street to watch a football match. The friends left and Martin remained in the bar talking to other customers. He left at about 7.10pm and hasn't been seen since.

Martin Kelly went missing from Belfast in January 2006. Photo provided by PSNIplaceholder image
Martin Kelly went missing from Belfast in January 2006. Photo provided by PSNI

“Martin, who is about 6ft 1in tall and of slim build with short dark hair, was wearing a black ‘Guinness’ T-shirt and blue jeans.

“Police investigating Martin's disappearance carried out searches on land and on the water and deployed the diving team and air support team in these searches.

"We have also undertaken extensive enquiries but despite conducting a wide range of interviews and reviewing all available CCTV relating to the incident, Martin has not been located."

Anyone who may have knowledge of Martin’s disappearance is asked to contact police on 101. Photo provided by PSNIplaceholder image
Anyone who may have knowledge of Martin’s disappearance is asked to contact police on 101. Photo provided by PSNI

Detective Inspector Harvey added: “We remain committed and determined to discovering what happened to Martin and detectives will continue to follow up all new lines of enquiry and any new information.

"We would urge anyone who may have knowledge of Martin’s disappearance to contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland.”

Information can be given to detectives by calling 101, the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or Missing People on 116 000.

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