A body has been recovered from the River Segura as it runs through Orihuela. It was located at the Puente Nuevo weir, behind the Casino, after the Provincial Fire Consortium received a call at 08:48 on Monday. Firefighters from Orihuela — a sergeant, a corporal and eight firefighters — used underwater rescue equipment and recovered the body at about 10:30; local police said it was in an advanced state of decomposition and placed it in the custody of the Judicial Police.

The National Police have opened an investigation to establish the man’s identity and the cause of death. Sources indicated the body showed no obvious signs of violence, but an autopsy will determine how he died and how long he had been in the water. Judicial and Scientific Police inspected and cordoned the scene while enquiries continue.

Officers have confirmed the body is that of Joaquín O. N., who was reported missing from Orihuela on 24 November. He was 47, of slim build, approximately 1.80 m tall, with brown eyes and greying hair; a missing-person alert had been issued and information shared on social media. Authorities have said all hypotheses remain open and urged anyone with information to contact the National Police on 091 or consult the National Centre for Missing Persons portal.