Urgent Search Launched: Missing Boy Disappears Near Queensland Shopping Centre—Community on High Alert!

A frantic search is currently in progress for a 12-year-old boy who has been missing for over 24 hours. He was last spotted near a shopping center, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in locating him.

An urgent search is actively being conducted for a 12-year-old boy who was reported missing after being seen near a shopping centre in Queensland on the evening of Friday, January 3. The last sighting took place on High Street in Stanthorpe, located approximately 232 kilometers southwest of Brisbane, at around 5:40 PM. Since that time, there has been no contact with the child, raising significant concern among authorities.

According to police reports, there is a possibility that the boy may be en route to the Ipswich region. Investigators have identified a gold 2008 Holden Commodore sedan, which bears Queensland registration plates 660KS5, as a vehicle of interest in this case. Authorities are urging the public to keep a lookout for this specific car.

The missing child is described as Caucasian, standing at approximately 140 centimeters tall, possessing a proportionate physique, and having red hair. When he was last seen, he was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, black trousers, black slip-on shoes, and a black cap. His attire at the time contributes to the urgency of the search.

A spokesman for the police has expressed deep concern for the welfare of the child, emphasizing that his disappearance is out of character. The unusual circumstances surrounding this incident have heightened the urgency of the search efforts, prompting law enforcement to reach out to the community for assistance.

Authorities are asking anyone who may have information regarding the missing boy or any leads on his whereabouts to come forward. The police have made a direct appeal to the public, requesting that anyone with potential insights or sightings contact Crime Stoppers. The safety of the child is the primary concern, and every piece of information shared may help in locating him.

In a statement, a police representative said, "If you have information for police on this, please call Policelink at 131 444 immediately. For those who may be in a situation requiring urgent assistance, please dial triple-0." The police are taking all necessary steps to ensure the swift resolution of this case and the safe return of the young boy.

The cooperation of the community at large is crucial as the search intensifies. Every individual is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any relevant information to assist in reuniting the missing child with his family.