Detectives have launched a murder investigation following the disappearance of a Kilburn man, over five years ago, after new information came light during a recent appeal. 

Robert Duff, 42, (19.07.75), has not been seen or heard from since 12 January 2013 when he failed to attend a family celebration for his daughter’s 18th birthday.

Since his disappearance, officers have issued a number of appeals to trace Mr Duff. New information brought to light during the latest appeal has led officers to now launch a murder investigation.

Yesterday, Monday, 14 May, two men aged 70 and 51, were arrested on suspicion of murder in Archway, N19. They were taken to a north London police station for questioning before being released under investigation. Enquiries continue.

Detective Chief Inspector Luke Marks, who is leading the investigation, said: “It has been over five years since Robert’s family have seen or heard from him. Each day they had have had to carry on without knowing what happened to him.

“Today, I am making an appeal for information regarding Robert’s disappearance in January 2013. I would encourage members of the public with information to come forward. We are now acting on new evidence, which has meant the case has developed from a missing persons to a murder inquiry. This information has also led to two arrests, but our efforts to seek new information and evidence will not stop.

“I’m appealing to the public once again, to come forward and help us further develop our enquiries. I urge anyone who saw or heard from Mr Robert Duff on 12 January 2013 to come forward and share what they know; it may seem like nothing to you, but it might be the information we need to complete the picture.

“After over five years with no news, Mr Duff’s family are desperate to find out what happened to him, and we will continue to work tirelessly until they do to establish the truth.”

Helen Duff, Robert’s mother, added: “Robert’s disappearance has always been forefront in our minds, and although we have always suspected that he may have come to some harm, there has always been the hope that he would return to us one day.

“Since hearing that this is now a murder investigation, that hope has been taken away from us and as a family, we are devastated. Our only wish now is that Robert is returned to us and so we can grieve together.”

Anyone with any information is asked to call the incident room on 020 8358 0200. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.