On the evening of October 18, a large-scale search operation was launched in Astana for two children aged 11 and 14. They got lost on the outskirts of the city and could not find their way back on their own. Police officers, rescuers, military personnel and volunteers joined the search. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
It turned out that the children were heading into the city through an open field overgrown with tall grass and dense vegetation. At some point they lost their bearings and realized they would not be able to get out on their own.
More than 200 police officers, representatives of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, National Guard servicemen and volunteers were involved in the search. A service search dog and special equipment were also sent to the area. Participants examined the surroundings and possible locations where the children might be.
Eventually, both were found and safely handed over to their parents.
"Administrative measures have been taken against the legal representative of the minors: he has been held accountable for improper performance of duties regarding the upbringing and ensuring the safety of the children," the Astana Police Department said.
Police officers conducted a preventive talk with the children themselves. They explained why one should not go to unfamiliar places without adults, why it is important to inform parents about one's plans and route, and how to act if lost.
Earlier, "Kursiv" reported that a missing child with developmental disabilities was found alive in a field in the Abai region.