Missing Adelaide man most likely murdered, say police

Major crime detectives have revealed an Adelaide man who vanished four months ago has almost certainly been murdered.

They've offered protection to people who may have information about the killing of Michael Purse, but are too scared to come forward.

Friends reported him missing on April 24, but he hasn't actually been seen since early February.

Detectives today revealed his final movements as they call for public help to find him.

Det. Insp. Billy Thompson, said: “We've now formed the view that we suspect Michael has been murdered.

“We believe Michael was involved in the illicit drug trade. We also suspect Michael was involved in fraud activities.”

“We believe he's been murdered so yeah, we are looking for a body.”

Mr Purse checked out of Hotel Richmond in Rundle Mall on Monday, February 4.

He was spoken to by police on North Terrace that morning because he appeared drug affected.

He was last seen near Adelaide Railway Station on Wednesday, February 6.

The 32-year-old was sentenced to fifteen months jail for tax fraud in 2014, for a scheme that netted him more than $130,000.

Detectives say they have persons of interest in his disappearance but as yet have no suspects.

Police say Michael Purse hasn't used his bank accounts, mobile phone, or social media since the last sighting of him in February and police don't expect to find him alive.

Friends of his who spoke to 9News anonymously said he is a smart man who changed his lifestyle in recent years.

Police are in contact with his family interstate and overseas.