Belongings of Missing British Hikers Found in Italian Alps

Items belonging to missing British hiker Aziz Ziriat have been found in the Italian Alps, close to the area where the body of his hiking partner, Samuel Harris, was discovered last week, rescue officials announced on Sunday.

The discovery was made during a large-scale search operation in the Adamello mountain range near Trento in northern Italy. Over 100 rescuers took part in Sunday’s efforts, using shovels to dig through snow across approximately 5,500 square meters (18,000 square feet) of challenging terrain. The operation was conducted at an altitude of 2,400 meters (7,800 feet), where snow depths varied significantly, ranging from 50 centimeters (20 inches) to nearly two meters (6.6 feet) in wind-accumulated areas, according to the Italian alpine rescue service.

This latest search effort formed part of a complex and resource-intensive mission that has engaged over 500 personnel since the two hikers were reported missing. The teams also included seven specially trained dog units, deployed to assist in the difficult conditions. Despite their commitment, rescue teams announced a temporary suspension of the operation, citing environmental factors such as snow stability and the need for improved weather conditions to ensure the safety of rescuers and the effectiveness of their efforts.

Ziriat, 36, and Harris, 35, were both experienced and well-prepared hikers who set out on January 1 for a planned excursion in the Adamello region. The alarm was only raised on January 6 when the two failed to return for their scheduled flight home. Family members, concerned by the lack of communication, alerted authorities, prompting the extensive search.

The initial phase of the search faced significant challenges, including heavy snowfall, thick fog, and avalanche risks that hampered visibility and safe movement across the terrain. On January 8, rescuers located Harris’ body along with the pair’s backpacks and equipment. Investigators used data from the hikers’ phone records to pinpoint areas of interest, which proved instrumental in narrowing the search zones.

The recovery of Ziriat’s belongings provides some hope for his family, though his whereabouts remain unknown. Local authorities emphasize that the temporary halt in the search does not signify an end but rather a strategic pause to prioritize safety and adapt to shifting conditions in the mountainous region.

The tragic disappearance of Ziriat and Harris highlights the dangers even experienced hikers can face in the unpredictable alpine environment. Mountain rescue experts have reiterated the importance of proper preparation, constant weather monitoring, and timely communication when engaging in such expeditions. They also stress the need for hikers to leave detailed itineraries with family or authorities to facilitate faster response times in emergencies.

The Italian Alps, known for their breathtaking landscapes and challenging trails, attract thousands of adventurers each year. However, this case serves as a somber reminder of nature’s power and unpredictability. As rescue teams await safer conditions to resume their efforts, the families of Ziriat and Harris remain in the thoughts of the broader hiking community, who have expressed their condolences and solidarity during this difficult time.