Police, SES and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter have searched in vain for a 45-year-old man who went missing in the Richmond River at Woodburn at around 7.30pm last night.
A search of the river and riverbank began involving local police, volunteers and the SES in boats, assisted by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
Police have been told the missing man may have been sleeping rough on the riverbank in the company of another man.
Following inquiries, a 43-year-old man was arrested at the scene and taken to Lismore Police Station.
He was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in relation to the incident.
He has been refused bail to appear in Lismore Local Court today (Wednesday June 13).
Today’s search will involve the same resources as used overnight, with an additional request for assistance from the NSW Police Dive Unit.
Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/
