Police Renew Plea for Public Help as Llandudno Teenager Remains Missing
Authorities in North Wales have intensified their appeal for public assistance as the search for 16-year-old Athrun, who vanished from Llandudno’s West Shore beach, enters its third day. Despite extensive land, sea, and air operations, the teenager remains unaccounted for, prompting fresh requests for anyone in the area to inspect their digital devices for clues.
Search efforts were launched after Athrun, described as vulnerable by the police, was reported missing Saturday afternoon, 10 May, while visiting Llandudno with his family from South Gloucestershire. His disappearance has triggered a large-scale response involving North Wales Police, Coastguard teams, the North West Joint Underwater Search Unit, and specialist drone operators.
North Wales Police have urged individuals who were on or near the West Shore beach last Saturday to review their mobile phones and dashcam footage for any images or video that might aid the investigation. Officers believe members of the public may have inadvertently captured Athrun in the background of photos or film taken that day.
A police spokesperson elaborated, “We request anyone present in the area, especially those who have photographs or dashcam recordings, to carefully check their media for potential sightings of Athrun or his family. Even a small detail in the background could prove pivotal in tracing his movements.”
The search, now bolstered by police divers focusing on the coastline and waters beneath the scenic Marine Drive, follows extensive ground sweeps during the weekend. Chief Inspector Trystan Bevan explained, “Significant portions of Llandudno have already been scoured. Efforts are currently concentrated on water-based operations, given the circumstances of Athrun’s disappearance.”
Athrun is described as approximately six feet tall, of slim build, with short dark hair, and walks with a noticeable gait. On the day he went missing, he was last seen wearing distinctive blue and white patterned swim shorts.
The unfolding case has seen considerable public support, with concerned locals offering to assist in searches. However, police have reiterated their request for well-meaning individuals to keep away from the area. “We appreciate all offers of help, but in order to use specialist resources effectively, it is important the public refrain from entering active search zones,” Chief Inspector Bevan added.
Families and friends of the teen, as well as the wider Llandudno community, have expressed mounting concern as the days pass. The situation has become increasingly urgent, with every hour that goes by without news adding to the distress.
Anyone with information, whether photographic, video, or otherwise, is asked to contact North Wales Police immediately via their website’s live chat service or by calling 101, quoting incident number C067064. Authorities emphasise that public vigilance and collective effort could make all the difference in resolving the search.
The ongoing search in Llandudno demonstrates not only the dedication of emergency services but also the crucial role ordinary citizens can play in missing person enquiries. Members of the public are reminded that even seemingly insignificant details may be vital, and are encouraged to check and submit any relevant footage or information without delay.
As the community waits anxiously for news, the thoughts of all those involved are with Athrun’s family, who continue to hope for his safe return. Police have vowed to persist with their search and investigation, leaving no stone unturned until there is resolution.