A body has been discovered during the search for two British hikers, Aziz Ziriat and Sam Harris, who went missing in the Italian Dolomites on New Year’s Day, according to Italy’s alpine rescue service. The body, buried under snow at an altitude of 2,600 meters near the Conca Pass in the Adamello Nature Park, has not yet been identified.
The search for the second hiker is ongoing. Rescue teams are also investigating the dynamics of the accident. On Wednesday, two rucksacks and other camping equipment were found in the area, providing a critical lead in the search efforts.
Missing Since New Year’s Day
Ziriat, 36, and Harris, 35, both from London, last communicated with their families on January 1. The hikers, described as experienced outdoorsmen who frequently explored remote locations, failed to board their return flight to the UK on January 6, prompting concern among relatives and friends.
The men’s last known location was near a mountain hut, Casina Dosson, close to Tione Di Trento, near Riva del Garda on Lake Garda. Their disappearance has led their families and friends to travel to Italy, where they are coordinating with local authorities to aid the search.
Public Appeal and Bad Weather Challenges
Crystal Palace’s official charity, Palace for Life, where Ziriat worked, issued a public appeal on Tuesday, urging anyone familiar with the area to assist with the search. They provided the reference: CAD 0197/07 Jan25 for those contacting authorities.
Efforts to locate the men have been hampered by severe weather conditions. On Tuesday, rescue teams faced challenging visibility and icy conditions, slowing progress.
Friends Praise Search Efforts
Joe Stone, a university friend of Ziriat, told reporters the hikers were experienced and often enjoyed going off the grid during their trips. However, “alarm bells were raised” when they failed to return for their scheduled flight.
Stone praised the efforts of local authorities and volunteers, saying, “The response from the local authorities has been fantastic, and people from all walks of life have been trying to help, both in Italy and in the UK. We’ve seen a nice side of humanity in these tough times.”
Friends, family, and volunteers remain hopeful for answers as the search continues.
