“We know Vitoria is probably not feeling herself, she might be scared,” the missing woman’s mother said

Vitoria Figueiredo Barreto - the last sighting of Vitoria on CCTV was at 12.16am on Wednesday 4 March

Footage of the missing woman.

Essex Police

Investigators have also searched the town area after the tote bag was found.

As the intensive search continues, Barreto’s family asks the Brazilian community in the area to display Brazilian flags to “create a safe and welcoming space for her,” police said.

“Sunday 15 March is of course Mother’s Day in the UK. I am a mum myself and I cannot even begin to imagine the pain Vitoria’s mother Gleyz has experienced since Vitoria’s disappearance,” Detective Superintendent Anna Granger of the Essex Police said in a statement.

Vitoria Figueiredo Barreto

Vitoria Figueiredo Barreto.

Essex Police

“Every single officer, staff member and volunteer involved in this search would love nothing more than to reunite Vitoria with her mum,” she continued, “and we’re working around the clock to do that.”

Earlier that week, Barreto’s mom, Gleyz Barreto, also gave a heartfelt plea that was shared by police.

“We know Vitoria is probably not feeling herself, she might be scared. To anyone who sees her, please make her feel welcome, make her feel loved and help her feel calm,” Gleyz said. “We are here for you Vitoria – please come home. You have done nothing wrong and you are loved.”

Anyone with information about Vitoria’s whereabouts or with footage is asked to call the U.K.’s emergency number or police.