The family of a sailor who went missing on Gran Canaria, a Spanish island, has reported significant findings in the ongoing investigation. James ‘Jemsie’ Nunan, a resident of Colchester in Essex, disappeared in August during a global voyage on his boat. Authorities located him visiting a kebab shop in Las Palmas, the island’s capital, on August 19, with his Irish passport visible. Subsequently, his boat was found 100 miles away from Las Palmas, and CCTV footage captured him at a police station on the same day reporting his lost passport.
Turning 35 this week, Jemsie’s family has reiterated their plea for information after 14 weeks of searching. They expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the case by Essex Police and the Guardia Civil, citing incomplete investigations into Jemsie’s vessel. The family disclosed that charred remnants of an iPad, a phone, and a dismounted GPS antenna were recovered, but a thorough forensic examination of the boat is yet to be conducted. Jemsie had intentions of sailing from Gran Canaria to Lanzarote and then continuing on to Brazil.
While his dog, Thumbelina, was found safe on the boat on August 25, Jemsie remained missing. The family revealed that a Pan Pan distress signal was issued on August 24, initially confirmed by the authorities but later disputed by the Guardia Civil, who claimed no call was made, and its origin remains unknown.
In a statement, the family disputed the dismissal of CCTV footage from the kebab shop and alleged a theft incident involving Jemsie’s backpack. They expressed frustration over a lack of cooperation with witnesses by the Guardia Civil. Additionally, they mentioned being advised against engaging with the media and being asked to pay fees for the impounded boat. Conflicting reports regarding Thumbelina’s presence on the vessel and uncertainties about her location following the towing of the boat were also highlighted by the family.
Thumbelina, a Jack Russell terrier, was implanted with a new Spanish microchip despite having a British one, causing delays in her return to Jemsie’s family. They are seeking clarification from Essex Police and the Guardia Civil on the unfolding events.