The whereabouts of more than 230 children reported missing or kidnapped since January 1, 2023, remain unknown, according to a recent police briefing.

In a meeting chaired by Sindh Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ghulam Nabi Memon, it was revealed that out of 2,066 cases of missing or kidnapped children reported over the past 21 months, 1,828 children have been recovered, while 238 remain missing.

During 2023, 1,443 children were reported missing in Karachi. Of these, 1,304 were found, while 139 remain missing. In the first nine months of 2024, 623 cases were reported, with 524 recoveries and 99 still unresolved.

Data shows that children aged 11-15 constituted the largest group of missing persons, with 687 cases in 2023 and 223 in 2024. Younger age groups also reported significant numbers, with 202 cases involving children under five in 2023 and 85 cases in 2024.

IGP Memon reviewed the performance of women and children protection centers and emphasized the need for prompt case registration for missing children. He directed the Citizen-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) to enhance coordination with police and NGOs, and to compile data for effective collaboration with federal and provincial authorities.

The CPLC noted its reliance on tools like the Zarra and Zainab Alert apps to report and monitor cases. Authorities aim to strengthen efforts to ensure the safety and recovery of missing children across Karachi and beyond.

Source: Dawn