Fresh CCTV footage from Brightlingsea harbour has been recovered as police step up the search for missing Brazilian woman Vitoria Barreto. The newly released video captures key activity between midnight and 6am on 4 March — a critical period in the ongoing investigation.
Harbour CCTV Shows Boats, But No Solid Sign of Vitoria Yet
The footage reveals several vessels carrying out routine marine work in the early hours. Investigators suspect Vitoria may have unmoored a boat from a pontoon during this time. However, the engine was never started, and the vessel drifted slowly out of the harbour, eventually being spotted near Bradwell-on-Sea later that morning.
So far, no clear images confirm Vitoria unmooring the boat. Police know she was seen alone at the waterfront at 12:16am after climbing over a metal fence close to where the boat was moored.
Police Issue Urgent Appeal to Harbour Workers and Witnesses
Detective Superintendent Anna Granger said: “If you were working in Brightlingsea harbour or passing through between midnight and 6am, please come forward. Did you see anyone acting suspiciously or unmooring a boat? Anything unusual for that time of night? Your information could be vital.” “We promised Vitoria’s family we will chase every lead. If you were on the water or nearby during those hours, please contact us.”
How You Can Help Crack the Case
- Report any info about Brightlingsea harbour events on 4 March via the police public portal.
- Call 101 quoting incident 622 of 4 March.
- If you spot Vitoria now, dial 999 immediately.
