Police suspend Cape York search for missing NSW woman, say no body found

Police have suspended the search for missing New South Wales woman Jamilla Humphrey after receiving “additional information or intelligence” about her disappearance.

The extensive search and rescue operation was called off on 6 September after the 52-year-old’s vehicle was located on the Old Telegraph Track, about three kilometres south of the Jardine River in the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) on 29 August.

The white Mitsubishi van with NSW registration AE 92 WX was found bogged and police told media on 2 September they believed Ms Humphrey could have walked away from her vehicle in a bid to find assistance.

“On [29] August, a white Mitsubishi van … which was believed to have been driven by Jamilla, was located on the Old Telegraph Track, approximately three kilometres south of the Jardine River in Cape York,” Cairns Detective Inspector Kevin Goan said.

“We understand that she was travelling alone with the intention of travelling to the tip of Australia.

“It’s concerning to us that she has left her vehicle; the vehicle was located in a bogged state.

“Jamilla’s personal effects appear untouched within the vehicle, which would give rise to the fact that she’s walked off, away from the vehicle, likely seeking help.”

However, on Friday afternoon, police said in a statement the large-scale search had been abandoned on the basis of new information, but did not specify what it was that led to the decision.

“The suspension of the search is subject to additional information or intelligence being received regarding her disappearance,” the statement said.

After being approached by several NPA residents regarding a rumour circulating in community that a body with injuries “not consistent with a crocodile attack” had been located during the search, Cape York Weekly put the question to the Queensland Police Service, who dispelled the speculation.

“There has been no body found,” a police spokesperson said.

“[Local police] have advised that there are a lot of rumours going around but no body has been found.”

Police have released new images of Ms Humphrey and now believe she has short, brown hair, and may be wearing dark shorts and a dark t-shirt.

She is described as Caucasian in appearance with a fair complexion, about 180 centimetres tall, thin build and blue eyes.

Anyone who might have seen Ms Humphrey or her vehicle in the area is urged to call the Bamaga police station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.