THE sister of a Mexican woman who went missing in Southampton last year has made an emotional appeal for her to get in touch.

Gabriela Montanez, 25, disappeared from her home in Atherley Road, Shirley, on May 19 following an argument with her parents Martin and Esther, with whom she was living.

The family had moved to the city to enable Martin to complete a PhD at the University of Southampton.

But Gaby, who speaks good English with an American accent, fled following a family row and hasn’t been seen or heard from since.

A major police investigation was launched to find her but despite more than 12 sightings of her across the south and in London she is yet to be traced.

Her parents returned to their native Mexico last year but detectives have remained in regular contact with the family ever since.

Now Gabriela’s worried sister Monica has filmed a direct appeal urging her to get in touch and let them know she is safe.

She said: “I’m really worried. I just want to know that you are fine or at least send me a message to say where you are. I’m really worried.”

Detective Inspector Phil Scrase said: “We are still looking for Gabriela and will continue to do so until she is found.

“I would appeal to anyone who has any information about her whereabouts or who thinks they may have seen her to get in touch.

“Any information – no matter how trivial or insignificant it may seem – could be critical to our investigation.

“Gaby, if you are reading this or watching the appeal from Monica, then please get in touch with us and let us know you are safe.

“I know you argued with your parents and may not wish to talk to them, but your sister and other family members are extremely worried about you and so am I.

“Your parents have had to return to Mexico. You are not in any trouble, we just need to know you are alright.”

Anyone who has any information about Gaby, who is brunette and 5ft 2in, should contact the Operation Lido team by calling 101.

Alternatively they can contact the anonymous Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111 or the Missing People charity by calling or texting 116 000.