Criticizing the police for the search for Nicola Bulley is “unfair”, says the ex-boss

Criticism of the way detectives have handled their investigation into Nicola Bulley’s disappearance is “unfair,” a former boss has said.

Lancashire Police have faced backlash in their search for the missing mother.

She disappeared on January 27 while walking her dog in the village of St Michael’s on Wyre.

Former Greater Manchester Police Chief Peter Fahy told BBC Radio 4: “Lancashire Police have been very diligent in locating many witnesses, eyewitnesses, mobile phone data and the massive use of CCTV.

“That alone has already put to rest many possible theories as to what happened to this poor woman.

“It’s disappointing that certain politicians may not have tried to take a more balanced view of this and say yes there is a particular problem with the provision of personal information and that often comes up in large investigations.

He said there was “a great feeling in policing that the way Lancashire Police have focused has become unfair”.

The public backlash, which has included complaints from MPs, mainly concerned a police press release issued on Wednesday detailing Ms Bulley’s private health issues.

The statement revealed the 45-year-old mum was struggling with drinking problems brought on by menopause before she disappeared.

Many people find it inappropriate for the squad to reveal something so private.

Former victims’ officer for England and Wales, Dame Vera Baird, previously said: “It is a terrible mistake to make this publicly available for absolutely nothing and I’m afraid I think it’s as sexist as it comes.

“Would we have had cops say, you know, if it was Nicholas, he’s unfortunate that he’s alcohol bound because he’s been suffering from erectile dysfunction for the past few weeks? I do not think so.

“You can hear all the senior police officers squirm as I say it, I would have thought.”

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) and the Information Commissioner have announced an investigation into the force.

It comes after social media users were labeled “vigilantes” by officials.

Some are believed to have attempted to enter a number of derelict properties along the River Wyre, claiming police did not search thoroughly enough.

Two TikTok users have faced backlash online after they filmed themselves digging in an area near the River Wyre where Nicola was last seen.

One was seen digging up earth while another debated the broader mystery surrounding the disappearance.

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