THE bodies of two women were yesterday found floating with their hands and feet bound in the Adelaide River, south of Darwin.

The women, both of Asian appearance, were thought to be Darwin locals, who police believe may have been thrown in the river as early as lunchtime on Monday.

Cruise operators found the bodies yesterday as they prepared to take tourists on sightseeing tours.

Post-mortem investigations in Darwin late yesterday were expected to determine the identities of the women.

Acting commander Bert Hofer confirmed police had been looking yesterday for three women who were reported missing earlier in theday. He did not rule out the possibility of finding another body.

“Both the women were clothed, and there were indications both women had been restrained,” he said.

One woman, in her mid to late 20s, was wearing a pink tube top and pink underwear.

The second woman was wearing a black dress and lots of jewellery.