15-year-old Bryony was reported missing in the Merthyr area of South Wales on January 5th. She was last seen wearing a black Hoodrich tracksuit, cropped black puffer jacket, and white Nike trainers at noon.
South Wales Police are urging anyone with information about Bryony’s whereabouts to come forward. It is important to note that the term “missing” does not necessarily means that a person has been abducted. A person is considered missing in the UK when their location cannot be determined. This classification remains in place until the person is located and their well-being is confirmed. Often, missing persons may not realize that they have been reported as such.
If you have concerns about someone’s behaviour, state of mind or absence that seems unusual, it is important to contact the authorities as soon as possible. Before doing so, try reaching out to the person’s friends and family and check their phone and messages. It is important to try and preserve the missing person’s room and belongings in case DNA evidence is needed later. It is also a good idea to check any outdoor spaces, such as the garden, shed, or garage, and to keep in mind that children can fit into small spaces.
When a missing person is reported, the South Wales Police Public Service Centre will gather as much information as possible to determine the initial police response. This information will also assess the risk level and select the necessary resources. In the past five years, South Wales Police have received more than 41,500 missing person reports, with an average of 17 people reported missing each day in the first two months of 2022.
Social media can be an effective tool for locating missing persons because it allows the police to reach a large number of people in various areas quickly. In some cases, a social media appeal could have negative consequences, such as if there is reason to believe that circulating the person’s name and the photo could put them in danger.
If you have any information about Bryony or any other missing person, it is important to contact the authorities as soon as possible. Any information, no matter how small, could be crucial in helping to locate the missing person and ensure their safe return.
