**Police Urge Caution as Search Intensifies for Missing 11-Year-Old in Merthyr Tydfil**
An urgent search continues for 11-year-old Artur, who has gone missing in Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales, prompting a significant response from local residents and police alike. Authorities have provided further updates as they work through the night to locate the missing child.
Artur was last seen around 4pm on Friday near the riverside on Pandy Close, not far from his school in the Dowlais area. According to several eyewitness accounts, he was seen running away from the school toward the riverside shortly after the end of the school day. He was dressed in a red T-shirt and blue shorts. Descriptions indicate that he is 5 feet 1 inch tall, of slim build, with short, dark hair.
News of Artur’s disappearance travelled quickly through the local community, leading to a large turnout of volunteers keen to assist the search. Hundreds of residents took to the surrounding areas in the hopes of finding the young boy or providing information on his whereabouts.
However, as evening descended, South Wales Police issued a statement thanking the community for their heartfelt support and initiative, but strongly urged members of the public to return home. Police cited their concern for public safety as light diminished and conditions near the river became precarious. The authorities emphasised the risks posed by reduced visibility and difficult terrain, particularly along the riverbanks.
A spokesperson for South Wales Police addressed the situation, stating: “We are truly grateful to all the local people who stepped up to help with the search for Artur this evening. Your support shows real community spirit. Nonetheless, specialist officers are now leading the operation, and we kindly ask that volunteers withdraw from searching, especially near the river where it can become hazardous as night falls.”
There had been some speculation locally about Artur possibly being near the river. Police clarified that while Artur was seen in the riverside area, there is no firm evidence he was playing close to the water. The authorities reiterated their appeal: “We appreciate the concern, but urge people not to put themselves at risk searching close to the river.”
The search for Artur remains ongoing, with officers combing the area using specialist equipment and trained teams overnight. Police continue to hope for information that may lead to his safe recovery, and have renewed their appeal for any sightings or details that could assist.
Those who may have seen Artur on Friday afternoon, or who possess information relevant to his disappearance, are encouraged to contact South Wales Police as soon as possible. Individuals can reach the force by calling 101, using the police website, or contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, quoting reference 2500220767.
The incident has resonated deeply throughout Merthyr Tydfil, as the tightly knit community rallies around Artur’s family. Messages of hope have spread on local social media platforms, with many expressing their determination to support the search efforts in whatever manner they safely can.
Police are expected to provide further updates as the search continues into the weekend. In the meantime, the public’s cooperation with official guidance is being thanked and encouraged, as authorities focus their efforts on bringing Artur home safely.