Urgent update from police on missing boy, 11, after hundreds of locals join search

Police have provided an update on their search for Artur, an 11 year old boy,who has been missing since around 4pm on Friday.

The news of his disappearance prompted hundreds of volunteers to join the search, but police are now urging everyone to return home for their own safety and allow specialist teams to continue the search overnight.

While expressing gratitude for the overwhelming community support, they warned that as daylight fades, conditions could become perilous. Artur, from Merthyr Tydfil was last spotted running away from school at the end of the day. This was near the riverside on Pandy Close, Merthyr Tydfil.

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He was dressed in a red T-shirt and blue shorts. He stands at 5'1" tall, is of slight build, with dark, closely cropped hair.A spokesperson for South Wales Police stated: "Thank you to the members of the public who have come out to help search for Artur this evening," reports Wales Online.

They continued: "We would like to stress that Artur has not been seen playing in proximity to the river, and urge the public not to put themselves at risk by searching close to the river as sunlight is fading and conditions become hazardous. Artur was last seen running away from school at the end of the school day.

"A team of specialist officers are in the area conducting the search for Artur. At this stage we urge the public to please return to their homes so that no further safety risk is posed.

"In their initial appeal, a spokesperson for South Wales Police stated: "Help us find Artur, 11, missing from Dowlais, Merthyr Tydfil. Artur was last seen at 4.40pm near the riverside on Pandy Close, Merthyr Tydfil. He was wearing a red T-shirt and blue shorts. He is 5'1" tall, of slight build, with dark close-cut hair.

"If you have seen Artur, or have any information which will help us to find him, please contact us quoting ref: 2500220767. You can contact us online via our website, by calling 101, or by phoning Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555111. "

Arthur remains missing, and anyone who may have seen him is urged to contact the police as soon as possible.

The Mirror has created the map in partnership with the Missing People charity as we launch our Missed campaigncalling for better support and care for missing people and their loved ones. Missing People is the only UK charity dedicated to supporting missing children, adults and their loved ones. Its mission is to be a lifeline when someone disappears

For advice, support and options, if you or someone you love goes missing, text or call Missing People’s Helpline on 116 000 or email 116000@missingpeople.org.uk. It’s free, confidential and non-judgmental, and sightings information can also be taken. Or visit www.missingpeople.org.uk.