Details of several agencies being involved in a widespread search following a report of two missing boys on Ryde beach yesterday (Monday 19th August) has reached the national news.
Two boys reported missing
The media were alerted to details of the search after police were called for assistance by HM Coastguard at 1.21pm yesterday.
It was reported that over 50 people were involved in the search including many holiday-makers and locals as well as HM Coastguard, Ryde Inshore Rescue and Police officers and staff.
The man and woman who made the call said they’d last seen the two boys (aged six and eight years old) at around midday going into the water between the Ryde Inshore Rescue building and Appley Tower.
Widespread search
Whilst the Coastguard and inshore rescue teams were searching the water, police officers and staff checked tourist attractions, nearby hotels, as well as an address given by the parents, which turned out to be incorrect.
At around 4.15pm, several hours after the search had started, the Coastguard called off their search, saying there was, “no further information to suggest two children were in danger”.
An innocent explanation?
A great deal of speculation followed on social media networks, as well as on national news Websites after it was suggested by HM Coastguard that this may have been a hoax call.
Police went on to advise that they were not able to confirm that the call received about the missing boys came from the parents, or that the boys were brothers.
They reiterated this morning that they’re keeping “an open mind about the circumstances of this report” and urged the parents of the boys to get in touch.
It’s highly possible the boys were found by the parents, who failed to inform the police.
“There is no evidence at this time to confirm a criminal offence has been committed deliberately. There could be a completely innocent explanation for what happened. Nothing can be ruled out as we assess all the information available.
“We are renewing an appeal for the parents or any relatives of these two boys to contact the police.”
Get in touch
Police are urging whoever made the call to get in touch with them today. Anyone else with information is asked to contact Newport Police Station by phoning 101. Alternatively, call the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous.
Image: Ron Saunders 47 under CC BY 2.0
