Derker mill search - four missing Vietnamese men are named

The four Vietnamese nationals who are missing and may have been in Bismark House Mill on Bower Street in Derker during the fire on Saturday, May 7, 2022, can now be named.

Cuong Van Chu, Uoc Van Nguyen, Duong Van Nguyen and Nam Thanh Le were reported missing to GMP on Thursday, July 21, 2022.

Cuong (39) arrived in the UK in June, 2019.

He maintained regular contact with his wife and children but they have not heard from him since Saturday, May 7, 2022.

Uoc (31) also maintained regular contact with his wife but she has not heard from him since Saturday, May 7, 2022, at which time he said he was in a mill.

Duong (29) arrived in the UK approximately 12 months ago.

He last contacted his family approximately three months ago, at which time he said he was residing in ‘an abandoned house’ whilst looking for work.

Nam (21) arrived in the UK in January, 2022.

He last contacted his family on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at which time he said he was residing in ‘a derelict house’ in ‘Dam’, believed to be Oldham, whilst looking for work.

Teams have been searching the remnants of the mill since demolition workers discovered human remains on Saturday, July 23, 2022.

Specialists have confirmed the recovery of remains of three victims, though they have not yet been formally identified.

Detective Superintendent Lewis Hughes, GMP’s Victim Identification lead, said: “Our thoughts remain with Cuong, Uoc, Duong and Nam’s loved ones.

"Specially-trained officers have been in direct contact with them and continue to make every effort to ensure they are fully updated and supported in Vietnam, as they would be in the United Kingdom.

“We are continuing to search Bismark House Mill to ensure the recovery of all human remains and any objects of significance.

"Meanwhile, the investigation team is following several lines of enquiry relating to the fire and activities at the mill beforehand.

“Though we have reason to suspect that Cuong, Uoc, Duong and Nam may have been in the mill during the fire, we are keeping an open mind with regards to how many people were present and their whereabouts.

"I, therefore, appeal to them or anyone with information about their whereabouts before or after the fire to contact us.

"I stress that their safety and welfare is our number one priority.

“We also continue to appeal for information about the fire or activities at the mill beforehand.”

Anyone with information should contact Greater Manchester Police via 101 quoting Operation Logan.

In an emergency, always dial 999.

Information can also be submitted in English or Vietnamese via the Major Incident Public Portal here

Anyone who would like to remain anonymous can share information via the independent charity - Crimestoppers - on 0800 555 111.

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