A Rockingham man has been charged with the alleged murder of Rebecca Delalande.
Cold Case Homicide Squad Detectives investigating the disappearance of the then-23-year-old mother have launched a search of a Bayswater industrial site.
The site was identified as a result of ongoing inquiries into Ms Delalande’s disappearance and information from the public.
Overnight, detectives charged a 45-year-old man from Rockingham with murder.
He is due to appear before the Perth Magistrates Court today.
“We would like to thank community members for coming forward and assisting with this investigation,” Cold Case Homicide Squad Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Stephen said.
“News of Rebecca’s disappearance has clearly been distressing for her family and friends, and we are committed to resolving this matter.”
Detectives became aware of Ms Delalande’s disappearance in late 2017 as they were conducting inquiries into unrelated matters. Further inquiries with her family and friends revealed she had not been seen or in contact since November 2001.
“Rebecca was in infrequent contact with her family prior to her disappearance, and they had formed the belief that she had relocated to the Eastern States,” Det-Sen. Sgt Stephen said.
Ms Delalande was described as 161cm tall with a slim build, brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen at a property in Fortunella Grove, Seville Grove.
The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information regarding this matter is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or by visiting www.crimestopperswa.com.au, where information is confidential and rewards are offered.
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