What role do witness statements serve in the investigation phase?

Witness statements play a crucial role in the investigation phase by providing important leads that can significantly aid in locating the subject of the search. These statements often contain firsthand accounts or observations that can reveal where the individual was last seen, potential routes they might have taken, and any other relevant details that can guide search efforts. Gathering this information can be vital for search and rescue operations, enabling teams to focus their resources more effectively and increase the chances of a successful recovery.

While witness statements can indeed serve other functions, such as supporting legal proceedings or justifying resource allocation, their primary value in the context of an investigation is their potential to offer actionable insights that lead to the swift location of the missing person or subject involved in the search.