The father of British journalist Charlotte Peet has voiced his deep concern as the search intensifies for his daughter, who has been missing in Brazil for ten days.
Charlotte Peet, 32, was last heard from on February 8 when she messaged a friend saying she was in São Paulo and planning to travel to Rio de Janeiro but needed accommodation. Since then, she has not responded to any messages, prompting growing fears for her safety.
Charlotte’s father, Derek Peet, revealed that his daughter had flown to Brazil without informing her family. “I wouldn’t say that it was normal,” he said. “There was something on her mind, obviously, otherwise she would have let us know. It’s very worrying, but I just don’t have any more to say. We’re just trying to pick up the pieces.”
Charlotte’s friend in Rio, who reported her missing, became alarmed after Charlotte failed to respond to follow-up messages. The family, unable to contact her, filed a missing person report initially in Rio de Janeiro, which has since been transferred to police in São Paulo — the last place she was believed to be.
Authorities have confirmed that Charlotte was last traced at London Gatwick Airport before boarding a flight to São Paulo. After her arrival, the trail went cold.
The 5th Missing Persons Division of the State Department of Homicides and Personal Protection (DHPP) in São Paulo is now leading the investigation. In a statement, regional officials confirmed they are actively pursuing leads to locate the missing journalist.
Widespread Concern from Media Community
Charlotte Peet, a fluent Portuguese speaker with nine years of journalism experience, has worked for international outlets such as Al Jazeera, The Times, The Evening Standard, and the BBC World Service. A member of Lonely Planet‘s travel experts, Charlotte has built a respected reputation as a freelance correspondent, particularly during her time living in Rio de Janeiro.
The Brazilian Foreign Press Association (ACIE) has called on local authorities to intensify the search. In a statement, ACIE President Edmar Figueiredo said, “The Brazilian Foreign Press Association would like to publicly express its concern about the disappearance of British journalist Charlotte Alice Peet and show solidarity with her family and friends. We urge the relevant authorities to strengthen their efforts to locate her.”
Family and Friends Desperate for Answers
Charlotte studied philosophy at the University of Bristol before earning a master’s degree in international journalism at City, University of London. She previously worked for The Rio Times and has spent over five years working as a freelance journalist between Brazil and London. Most recently, she was an editorial team lead at the data platform Mindrift.
The UK Foreign Office has confirmed it is assisting Charlotte’s family. A spokesperson said, “We are supporting the family of a British woman who has been reported missing in Brazil and are in contact with local authorities.”
The days continue to pass without word from Charlotte, and her family’s anguish deepens. “We’re incredibly worried,” her father added. “We just want to know that she’s safe.”
Authorities urge anyone with information about Charlotte’s whereabouts to come forward.
