A significant police operation is underway at a Linwood property as the search for missing Christchurch man Braydon Hepworth continues.

A house on the corner of England Street and Hereford Street has been cordoned off by police, with specialist search teams arriving at the property.

Chris Lynch Media understands the operation is connected to the disappearance of 21 year old Braydon, who has not been seen or heard from since early September.

Forensic equipment has also been seen being taken into the property by police staff.

Neighbours spoken to by Chris Lynch Media said the property was generally quiet and had been used as backpacker accommodation.

The operation follows a desperate plea from Braydon’s mother, Char Huntley, who told Chris Lynch Media earlier this week that the family was devastated by his disappearance.

The last confirmed sighting of Braydon was at a Linwood service station on 3 September.

Police previously said extensive enquiries had been carried out to find him but had been unsuccessful.

His family has serious concerns for his wellbeing.

Huntley said there had been no activity on Braydon’s phone or bank account since 3 September and his last known address was on England Street in Linwood.

“I’m so scared for him. The more hours that go by, the more my heart breaks,” she said.

“I love him and not knowing where he is at is breaking me apart.”

A police spokesman said “This is in relation to a pre-planned operation.”

This is a developing story.