Police in Brazil have provided new updates on the case of a British journalist who has been missing since February 8. Charlotte Peet, 32, was reported to have taken a bus from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro, according to various Brazilian news sources.
The São Paulo Civil Police confirmed that after her arrival in Rio, Peet stayed at several hotels and was seen at popular locations, including a bar on Copacabana beach. Authorities even shared a photo of her taking a selfie on the bus and another where she was enjoying herself at the beach bar.
As part of the investigation, the Civil Police of Rio de Janeiro have been alerted about her whereabouts. They stated that they are in the final stages of the investigation, which will soon be forwarded to the local authorities for further action. However, they have kept additional details private.
Despite her phone still being active, Peet has not answered calls from friends or family. The Special Tourist Assistance Police Station in Rio highlighted this concerning detail.
The Association of Foreign Press Correspondents in Rio de Janeiro announced Peet’s disappearance on February 18, which was ten days after she last communicated with anyone. Peet had mentioned her plans to travel to Rio to a friend back in São Paulo, telling her that she was looking for accommodations. The friend, however, was unable to host her.
The friend reported Peet missing shortly after her family reached out, expressing concern over the lack of contact. Her father, Derek Peet, revealed that she traveled to Brazil without informing her family, saying he found her actions unusual. The investigation shows she had taken a flight from Gatwick Airport to São Paulo, after which her whereabouts became unclear.
Derek expressed his deep worry for his daughter, stating, “I just don’t know what’s going on.” Meanwhile, the British embassy has confirmed they are in touch with local authorities and are supporting Peet’s family during this difficult time.
Charlotte Peet has previously worked as a freelancer for outlets like Al Jazeera and had spent time working in Rio before moving back to London last year, only to return to Brazil in November.
