THE police response to a missing person inquiry is to be independently investigated after a body was found at the address from which the man apparently disappeared.
Police Scotland say they believe they have discovered the remains of Arnold Mouat at an address in Panbrae Road, Bo’ness, West Lothian. As a result, the force said it is referring the case to the Police Investigations & Review Commissioner.
The disappearance of 64-year-old Mr Mouat, who was last seen by family at his large detached home overlooking the Firth of Forth on July 7, sparked a four-week police operation.
Search and rescue officers were deployed along with police dogs to look for the married father-of-four. The Police Scotland Marine Unit also used specialist equipment in the water near Bo’ness.
A media campaign was launched with posters distributed across the local area.
More than 50 volunteers combed areas where it was thought Mr Mouat, a keen hiker, used to walk to help with the police effort. Searches included the use of police dogs and water searches with the Police Scotland Marine Unit.
At the time, Inspector Martin Rutland said: “Unfortunately, we are still looking for that key piece of information that will give us the answers Arnold’s family are desperately seeking.”
Mr Moat, originally from the Aith in the Shetland Islands, had previously lived in Aberdeen and moved to the area three years ago. Though frail, neighbours described him as a keen dog walker, and they would often see him walking his dog around Bo’ness.
In a statement, Police Scotland announced the discovery of the body had been made around 2.45pm on Saturday.
It added: “While the body has not been formally identified, officers believe these are the remains of Arnold Mouat who was reported missing on July 7 and as such are no longer treating Mr Mouat as a missing person.”
Superintendent Martin Fotheringham of Forth Valley Division said: “This is a tragic set of circumstances and our thoughts and sympathies are with the Mouat family as they come to terms with their loss.
“Following a review of our response to this incident, Police Scotland has referred this matter to the Police Investigations & Review Commissioner.
“We will provide them with all the necessary assistance and support they require during their investigation. We are continuing to support Mr Mouat’s family with dedicated family liaison officers and will continue to offer any assistance we can throughout this difficult time.”
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