Crucial new clues have reportedly emerged in the case of missing Melbourne mother Karen Ristevski, as police investigate mobile phone data that could shed light on her movements and those of her husband on the day she disappeared.
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Ms Ristevski, 47, was last seen leaving her Avondale Heights home at 10am on June 29.
Her husband Borce Ristevski said the couple had an argument before she left their home in Oakley Drive to go for a walk to "clear her head".
Police are now reportedly combing mobile phone data after it was revealed both their phones were detected by transmitter towers located on the Calder Highway later that day.
News Corp Australia has reported Ms Ristevski's mobile phone was detected in the vicinity of Gisborne, about 40km north-east of her Avondale Heights home.
Mr Ristevski's mobile phone was detected in nearby Diggers Rest on the same day. His phone was also reportedly switched off for two hours.
Police are also reported to have taken samples of soil from two cars at the Ristevski property.
Missing persons squad detectives have been focusing their efforts on a "rural area" north-west of Melbourne, acting Sergeant Melissa Search said on Thursday.
"Investigators are appealing for anyone that resides in this area to consider checking their properties for any changes or any suspicious activity since the disappearance of Karen," Sergeant Search said.
Sergeant Search said police have concerns for Ms Ristevski's welfare as her disappearance is out of character.
News Corp Australia reported Mr Ristevski has told detectives he had forgotten to mention that he had driven his wife's 2004 Mercedes-Benz coupe that day, saying he had taken it for a drive to test a faulty fuel gauge.
Asked about the latest evidence, Victoria Police spokesman Thomas O'Byrne said police "will not be providing a running commentary on the case".
Mr Ristevski is understood to have hired law firm Stary Norton Halphen, headed by top criminal defence lawyer Rob Stary.
Both Mr Ristevski and his son from a previous relationship, Anthony Rickard, have been interviewed by police.
Fairfax Media is not suggesting either were involved in Ms Ristevski's disappearance.
Mr Rickard has given various interviews to media outlets, claiming there was conflict within the family and his stepmother had fled.
In yet another twist this week, Mr Ristevski's brother claimed Ms Ristevski has fled overseas using a fake passport.
Ms Ristevski is about 160 centimetres tall with a slim build and shoulder-length brown hair.
She was last seen wearing a black jacket and jeans and it is believed she was carrying a Coach handbag and purse.
Police said anyone who has seen Mrs Ristevski should contact 000 or anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report.