Police are renewing an appeal for public assistance as they continue to investigate the disappearance of a man from Granville almost one year ago, which is being treated as suspicious.
Zachary Ritz, aged 45, was last seen at his unit on Inkerman Street, Granville, on Wednesday, October 27, 2021.
He was reported missing to officers from Cumberland Police Area Command on Wednesday, December 21, 2021 and has not been seen or heard from since.
Police and family hold serious concerns for his welfare due to his disappearance being out of character.
An investigation into his disappearance is being conducted under Strike Force Alleppo, with several searches undertaken in the local area – with the assistance of strike force detectives and the Public Order and Riot Squad.
Mr Ritz is described as being of Mediterranean/Middle Eastern appearance, of solid build, with shoulder length black curly hair, and a dark scruffy beard.
He walks with a limp and is often assisted by a walking stick.
Mr Ritz is known to frequent the areas of Granville, Greenacre, Merrylands and Auburn. He has also previously been known as Ehab Taha, Ehab El Jandih and John Sutherland.
Cumberland Police Area Commander, Superintendent Andrew Holland, said investigators are particularly eager to speak to anyone who saw or spoke to Mr Ritz in the days leading up to his disappearance.
“Zachary left all of his possessions and personal belongings behind. He is an avid fisherman and often travelled to regional parts of the state with mates to fish, so detectives are keen to speak to any of these people who often went on trips with Zachary.
“Strike force detectives will continue to conduct physical searches and other inquiries to determine where Zachary is and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance,” Supt Holland said.
Investigations under Strike Force Alleppo are continuing.
Anyone with information about Mr Ritz’s disappearance and whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.