Published 9th August 2010
Identity switch cop’s ex vanishes with tot
POLICE fear a cop’s missing ex has used her expert IT skills to create a new identity — after vanishing with their three-year-old girl.
Accountant Salena Dingwall, 39 — who once worked for an anti-corruption unit — is believed to have tapped into her hi-tech knowledge to make sure she and little Holly Bringan can never be traced.
Officers have been searching for the tot since she was reported missing last October — but have so far drawn a complete blank.
Last night Holly’s police sergeant dad Douglas Bringan, 44, appealed to Salena to end his agony — and let him know his daughter is safe. He said: “I miss my daughter greatly and think about her every minute of every day. I hope I can be reunited with her soon.”
Strathclyde officer Douglas, from Glasgow, added: “My message to Salena is to please make contact.”
The doting dad had enjoyed regular visits from his little girl, despite a bitter split from his wife in 2007 when Holly was just four months. But he was forced to report Holly as missing on October 22 after repeated attempts to contact Salena failed.
Police have since been unable to trace the pair despite exhaustive enquiries.
It’s thought the mum had specialist knowledge of how to create new IDs and open bank accounts without leaving a trace.
And last night Superintendent Jim Coubrough, who is leading the investigation, appealed to her to come forward. He said: “Salena has a knowledge of finances and technology, and has managed to create another life for herself — which in this day and age is quite unusual.”
He added: “Salena has not committed any crime. We understand that she is a good mum. “But we need physical proof Holly is safe and well.”
Salena, originally from Troon, Ayrshire, also uses the name Sarah and surnames Bringan, Barnes and O’Brien. She was planning a new life in Bristol — but could now be anywhere in the UK.
Police have been in regular contact with her mother Margaret Barnes. But the 76-year-old, from Irvine, Ayrshire, said: “Salena didn’t want me to know where she went so I’m not in contact with her. “But I know she and Holly are safe — I have a mother’s instinct.”
We cannot print Salena’s picture due to legal reasons. But she is 5ft 1in, slim, with dark shoulder length hair, which was dyed blonde. She has blue eyes but sometimes wears brown lenses.
Identity switch cop’s ex vanishes with tot
