Human remains found in woodland in Swansea have been confirmed as a man who went missing 21 years ago.

South Wales Police said forensic tests had identified them as belonging to Russell Scozzi, last seen in May 2002.

The discovery was made behind Waverley Drive in the Mumbles area of the city on 6 April.

Detectives said Ms Scozzi’s family had been informed and were being supported by specially trained officers.

“Our investigation into the finding of Mr Scozzi’s remains is ongoing in order that we can establish the circumstances leading up to, and the cause of death,” said Detective Chief Inspector Matt Davies.

Mr Scozzi was from the West Cross area of Swansea.

His sister paid tribute: “My heart goes out to Russell’s children who have grown up without their father and never really knowing what happened to him.

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“Hopefully now we, as a family, can lay him to rest and with the work of South Wales Police discover what happened to him.

“I dearly loved Russell. He was my big brother who I always looked up to when I was growing up, and to lose him in this way has been devastating.

“Finally, we can be given the opportunity to grieve him properly.”

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