Essex police are investigating the disappearance of Brazilian academic Vitoria Figueiredo Barreto, who has been missing since March 3. The 30-year-old psychologist was last heard from after meeting a friend at Essex University in Colchester, prompting concerns for her wellbeing. Barreto was seen on CCTV footage shortly after her last contact, where she appeared to jump over a fence into a boatyard shortly after midnight on March 4.

In a significant development in the ongoing search for Barreto, police announced that a laptop thought to belong to her was discovered in Brightlingsea, a coastal town she had traveled to after leaving university. The laptop could provide crucial information about her whereabouts and state of mind before she went missing. Authorities are calling for anyone with information to assist in their investigation, as they continue to explore all possible leads.

The case has drawn attention not only due to the distressing circumstances of her disappearance but also as it highlights issues related to the safety of international students studying in the UK. As police continue their investigation, friends and family of Ms. Barreto are hoping for her safe return and are urging the public to come forward with any details that could help in finding her.