Family of British hiker still missing in Dolomites issue heartbreaking statement
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The family of a British hiker still missing in the Dolotmites said they are "devastated" following the tragic discovery of his friend. Aziz Ziriat, 36, and Samuel Harris, 35, both from London, were hiking in Italy's Dolomites mountains when they went missing on January 1. They were due to return home on January 6, but a search and rescue operation was launched as the two friends failed to board their return flight.
On Wednesday, rescue services confirmed Mr Harris's body had been found "buried under the snow" at around 2,600m, where a phone signal had been last recorded. A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said on Friday: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in northern Italy and are in contact with the local authorities.'.
Meanwhile, the search for Mr Ziriat's body continues after his mobile phone, card and glasses were discovered close to Mr Harris' body. In a statement, Mr Ziriat's heartbroken family said: "We have been devastated by the loss of our beloved Aziz. Our appreciation for the co-ordinated work and expertise of the Alpine Rescue, emergency services and volunteers in Italy is immeasurable.
"The work they have been doing, battling against challenging terrain and weather conditions, and their commitment to finding Aziz has been outstanding. We are also incredibly grateful for the overwhelmingly kind and generous ongoing support from family and friends, Aziz is continuing to be loved and prayed for. We hope, with all our hearts, he will be found and brought home soon.".
