**Fresh Leads in Charlene Hobbs’ Disappearance Spark Renewed Appeal from Police**
Police investigators in Cardiff have announced a significant development in the case of Charlene Hobbs, the woman whose disappearance last July prompted a murder investigation. Despite the passage of several months and exhaustive inquiries, new information has emerged that may shed light on her whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding her vanishing.
Since Charlene, 32, was last documented in the Broadway area of Adamsdown on 24 July 2024, the case has haunted both law enforcement and her family. The most recent confirmed sighting of Charlene was captured in a photograph, where she was seen with her hair in a bun, wearing a dark strapless top – a detail that has been widely circulated by South Wales Police. She is known to have a large dragon tattoo on her back, which officers have urged the public to look out for.
Recently, officers have been contacted by members of the public reporting possible new sightings in the Adamsdown and Coryton districts of Cardiff. These fresh reports are being taken seriously, with investigators emphasising that further witnesses could be pivotal to cracking the case. Police stress the urgency for anyone who might recognise Charlene, or themselves from the details, to come forward without delay.
One such potential sighting occurred around 11:20am on 29 July 2024, close to the ‘Black Bridge’ railway crossing between Adamsdown and Splott. Witnesses described seeing a woman resembling Charlene, possibly wearing a blue jacket, walking in single file with two unidentified men. One man was described as white, likely in his 30s or 40s, and of average build, while the other was of similar height but notable for wearing a black face covering, the specifics of which remain unclear.
A separate report surfaced concerning an incident at the Asda supermarket in Coryton on 1 November, several months after Charlene disappeared. Here, a woman matching Charlene’s description was seen standing near the store’s security desk with a young boy of about four years old. According to witnesses, a woman in her forties with short, burgundy dyed hair approached, and the trio left the supermarket together. These figures are yet to be identified, and police are keen to trace them for further questioning.
Commenting on these developments, Detective Chief Inspector Matt Powell, who is leading the investigation, said, “As a result of ongoing enquiries, we have received reports of two possible sightings of Charlene. We are urging anyone who can provide additional information, particularly those mentioned at the Black Bridge and Asda, to come forward.” He added, “Despite the volume of information received, we still have no confirmation that Charlene is alive, but we remain hopeful and focused on finding her and bringing closure to her loved ones.”
A 45-year-old man arrested in connection with Charlene’s disappearance has been released on police bail, with investigations still continuing. The traumatic uncertainty persists for the family, who are being kept regularly updated by officers. In the meantime, their ordeal continues, with the hope that the latest leads might finally produce answers.
Highlighting the seriousness of the case, the independent charity Crimestoppers is maintaining its reward of up to £20,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for Charlene’s disappearance. The financial incentive underlines how desperate authorities are for meaningful leads.
The community across Cardiff and beyond has avidly followed this story, with many locals expressing support to Charlene’s family and the ongoing efforts of the police. As the investigation deepens, authorities encourage anyone who may have even the smallest piece of information to come forward – no matter how insignificant it may seem.
Charlene’s family, said to be devastated but hopeful, continue to plead for her safe return. As police follow up on these new reports, the public’s keen attention and cooperation remain crucial. More details regarding the Crimestoppers reward and how to contact police can be found on the South Wales Police website.