Police have temporarily stopped all physical search efforts to locate missing Avondale Heights woman Karen Ristevski.
On Thursday, police and SES workers combed a 60-hectare area along the Maribyrnong River near Mrs Ristevski’s house for signs of the 47-year-old.
A police spokesman said the search would not continue today.
Mrs Ristevski has been missing for more than two weeks. She was last seen on the morning of June 29 when she left her home to “clear her head”.
It has been reported that she and her husband Borce Ristevski had an argument over financial troubles before she left the house. The couple own Taylors Lakes formal wear business Bella Bleu.
During a press conference on Thursday, Mrs Ristevski’s aunt, who asked to be identified only as Patricia, pleaded for the public to come forward with any information.
“We have nothing, so if you have something you know, something you have seen, you’ve heard something, someone’s spoken to you about something, anything, please, we’re asking you to help us.
“Whatever you’ve got, even just a suspicion, it doesn’t matter,” she said.
Patricia said the family was living a nightmare.
“We take every day as it comes. It’s a nightmare,” she said. “It’s difficult for the family.”
“Somebody knows something out there.
“It’s not possible for someone to just disappears like this. It’s not Karen; Karen would not leave us.”
She ruled out the possibility of Mrs Ristevski having any enemies who would want to harm her.
Mr Ristevski and the couple’s 21-year-old daughter Sarah were also present at the press conference. The Australian reported they left abruptly after a journalist asked whether Borce killed his wife.
Borce Ristevski not talking about his missing wife Karen. Pleas for info by her family and police @7NewsMelbourne pic.twitter.com/5f8006tDIE
— CameronBaud7 (@CameronBaud7) July 14, 2016
Patricia said the question was inappropriate and the family called off the interview.
Mr Ristevski was questioned by police a week ago and was released without charge.
Mrs Ristevski was last seen wearing a black jacket and jeans. It is believed she had a Coach handbag and a Coach purse with her.
She is described as 160cm tall, of slim build, and has shoulder-length brown hair.
Anyone who sees Karen is urged to contact triple-0. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 immediately.
