Concerns for Somali man missing after argument at beach

Searchers are looking for a Somali man who went missing from a Central Hawke’s Bay beach over the weekend after a disagreement with friends.

Dau Atem, 22, of Palmerston North, was staying with friends at a bach at Shoal Bay, Aramoana for the weekend and police have concerns for his safety.

About 10pm on Saturday night he left the bach after a disagreement with the group and has not been seen since, police say. He was reported missing by his friends around midday yesterday.

Police and search and rescue teams yesterday searched the shoreline and baches in the area.

Those searches are continuing today and tomorrow, when police say more search teams may be called in.

Police are appealing for any information about him, and say he may be trying to hitchhike back to his home in Palmerston North or he may still be in the Aramoana area.

He is described as tall and skinny and was last seen wearing a grey hoodie, grey jeans and was barefoot.

Anyone who has seen Mr Atem or knows where he is should contact Eastern District Police on 06 8310700.