Parbhat: Family of missing 24-year-old extends gratitude to community, requests final search for “closure”

The family of an Indian national who went missing at the Gap earlier this month have thanked the community for its help while making a final plea for information, after police officially suspended the search on August 8. Rahul — the cousin of 24-year-old Parbhat who was last seen at the Gap in Torndirrup on August 5 — flew to Albany from Melbourne on August 9 to visit the place his cousin was last seen and liaise with police and the community. He said the last few weeks had been a “devastating time” for his family as they grappled with Parbhat’s disappearance. “Parbhat is a quiet and gentle soul, someone who never sought the spotlight but touched the lives of those around him with his kindness,” he said. “His absence has left us in a state of deep worry and heartache. “My family hasn’t been able to sleep, as we are consumed with concern for his safety.” Rahul said Parbhat came to Australia in 2018, living in Melbourne for several years before moving to Western Australia in 2021. Parbhat was studying to become a chef and working as a cook in Perth, though his exact place of employment is unknown. His last known address was in Bull Creek and he was believed to have been in Albany since July 27, telling his landlord he was looking for work. Parbhat last contacted his family on July 22, more than two weeks before his disappearance. Police officially suspended their search on August 8, with Sgt Vaughan MacKay saying they had “exhausted” air, land, and sea search efforts to find Parbhat. Rahul said his family still held out hope, requesting that police conduct a final sea search as a way to bring them “some closure, a chance to find answers, and perhaps, a way to begin healing”. He said his family were grateful for the “understanding and compassion” shown to them by the Albany community, and urged anyone with information to come forward. “The support we’ve received from the Albany community has been overwhelming, and it has given us strength during this incredibly difficult time,” Rahul said. “Your help could make a significant difference and bring us closer to finding the answers we so desperately need. “Our hearts are broken, but we hold on to hope that we can find a resolution that will allow us to remember Parbhat with the love and peace he deserves.” Albany police officer-in-charge Acting Sen. Sgt Dave Costello said Albany police had closed the case and would not conduct any further searches. The case has been referred to the Coroner. Lifeline: 13 11 14.