Disappearance of student still baffling police

Young Wook Ma

A month after a 23-year-old Korean student vanished from his North Shore home, police say they are baffled by his disappearance.

Young Wook Ma, also known as Jack Ma, was reported missing by his parents on June 14 - two days after he was last seen at the Unsworth Heights home where he lived with his parents.

Several sightings since have not been substantiated.

He left behind his wallet and personal belongings, including his New Zealand passport. His bank account has remained untouched.

Police said he took his cellphone but no clothing. The cellphone remained active for two days after Mr Ma disappeared.

Police said the disappearance was completely out of character.

There was no evidence of foul play but police said hearing nothing from Mr Ma raised "our genuine concerns for his safety and whereabouts".

"Every conceivable background inquiry has been made by police in the past month in our efforts to locate Jack Ma. His disappearance continues to take a severe toll on what is a close, loving family, with shy disposition and Christian beliefs," said North Shore police spokesman Kevin Loughlin.

"This is a complete mystery to us."

He said anyone with information should contact police on (09) 488 6200.

Mr Ma is 176cm tall with a medium build and black hair.

When last seen he was wearing a grey sweatshirt, black circa brand shoes and a Casio Baby G watch. He carried a silver Panasonic cellphone.

This week police said they had scaled down the search for Mr Ma.

Sergeant Grant Hand from Browns Bay police said they had done everything they could.

- NZPA