The next steps for police after Cleo’s miracle rescue
The investigation into Cleo Smith’s disappearance is expected to continue for weeks.
The four-year-old was rescued early yesterday morning after a remarkable effort by Western Australian Police.
She was found in a locked home in the WA town of Carnarvon, 18 days after she went missing from her family’s tent at he Blowholes campsite.
A 36-year-old man, who has no connection to Cleo’s family, is in custody and assisting police with their inquiries.
No charges have yet been laid.
Western Australia Police Deputy Commissioner Col Blanch told Neil Mitchell the 36-year-old has been taken to hospital this morning.
It’s the second time he’s been hospitalised since being taken into police custody.
The man was not injured during his arrest.
“We’ve got to look after his welfare and make sure he’s fed, rested, medically and mentally sound before we can interview him properly, otherwise the integrity of that interview won’t stand up in court,” Mr Blanch said.
Press PLAY below to hear the latest from WA Police Deputy Commissioner Col Blanch
West Australian police have released some of the vision from cameras worn by officers who rescued four-year-old Cleo Smith.
Asked whether she’s “ok”, little Cleo nods her head.
The moment Cleo was rescued 👏 pic.twitter.com/arusYi9kCa
— WA Police Force (@WA_Police) November 3, 2021
WA Police Commissioner Chris Dawson said the investigation into Cleo’s disappearance will continue for another two weeks.
Police will comb through data and forensic evidence in a bid to establish what before the girl was taken, and in the 18 days she was held captive.
Buildings across Perth were lit up in blue last night to pay tribute to the police who rescued little Cleo.
Image: WA Police