A murder investigation has been initiated in Spain after the discovery of the body of 37-year-old John George, a Northern Ireland native who had been missing for three weeks.

George, a father of two from Belfast, had traveled to Spain in mid-December but was reported missing after he failed to return home on his scheduled flight on December 18.

The discovery of George's body has left his family in deep anguish.

His brother, Darren George, expressed their profound sorrow to BBC Northern Ireland, stating that their parents are 'two broken people.' He continued, 'They will never get over this; none of us will.

John's at rest, but we are not, and we will never be at rest.'

Local Spanish authorities have confirmed the arrest of a 32-year-old man shortly after George's body was found.

On Wednesday night, an extension was granted for the suspect’s detention as part of the ongoing investigation.

Additionally, local reports suggest that police are investigating whether another suspect from Northern Ireland may have fled to Thailand.

The search for George included an extensive effort by his family and friends, involving a team of up to 50 people, including his parents, two sisters, uncles, cousins, and other relatives, who traveled to Spain to search the Alicante area.

Volunteer organization K9 Search and Rescue also joined the search efforts on New Year’s Day and returned home afterwards.

The body was eventually found in a wooded area near Rojales, located 45 minutes south of Alicante.

John George was last heard from on December 14 during a 'distressing' phone call with family, and he was reported missing four days later when his family lost contact.

The Spanish police informed the George family about the discovery on Tuesday, confirming the harrowing news.

Reflecting on the agonizing search, Darren George said, 'The last three weeks had been a living nightmare.

There are no words to describe what we’ve been going through as a family.' He explained that the search party thoroughly examined mountains, drainpipes, and sewers in their quest to find John.

George's sister Courtney expressed her heartbreak on social media, writing, 'My body is numb and my heart is broken.

You have taken my brother’s life and ruined mine – you have put us through hell.' She added, 'I hope who has done this to my family, John’s face haunts them every night.'

As the investigation continues, the family's lawyer, Kevin Winters, has been actively involved, supporting the family in this difficult time and ensuring effective communication with Spanish authorities.