According to the World Population Review, around 180,000 people go missing each year (believed to be a gross underestimation; figures estimated at 353,000 reported incidents) in the United Kingdom. Although most missing persons are children, fortunately, 80% of them are found. Nevertheless, a significantly higher number of people are believed to be missing but go unreported. Our neighbours across the pond (United States) – according to NameUS (National Missing Persons & Unidentified Persons), more than 600,000 people go missing each year.
Missing persons investigations involve the systematic search, inquiry, and analysis conducted by law enforcement agencies, private investigators, or specialised organisations to locate individuals who have disappeared under suspicious, unknown, or involuntary circumstances. These investigations aim to determine the whereabouts and well-being of missing persons and, if necessary, provide assistance or intervention to ensure their safety.
-
Initial Report: The investigation typically begins with the receipt of a report or complaint regarding a missing person. This report may come from family members, friends, caregivers, or concerned individuals who have noticed the person’s disappearance or absence.
-
Assessment and Documentation: Investigators assess the circumstances surrounding the disappearance, gather information about the missing person, and document relevant details such as physical description, last known whereabouts, known associates, medical conditions, and any other pertinent information.
-
Search and Inquiry: Investigators conduct a comprehensive search and inquiry to gather information and leads that may help locate the missing person. This may involve interviewing witnesses, family members, friends, and acquaintances, reviewing surveillance footage, conducting forensic analysis, and coordinating with other agencies or organisations involved in the search efforts.
-
Public Appeal and Awareness: Public appeals and awareness campaigns may be launched to solicit information from the public, raise awareness about the missing person’s case, and encourage individuals with information to come forward. This may include distributing flyers, utilizing social media platforms, and engaging with the media to reach a wider audience.
-
Database Checks and Analysis: Investigators may conduct database checks and analysis to search for potential matches or leads related to the missing person. This may include missing persons registries, financial records, social media activity, and other digital footprints.
-
Forensic Examination: In cases where foul play is suspected or evidence suggests criminal activity, forensic examination may be conducted to gather additional evidence, such as DNA analysis, forensic anthropology, or other specialised forensic techniques to help identify or locate the missing person.
-
Collaboration and Coordination: Missing persons investigations often involve collaboration and coordination between various agencies, including law enforcement, search and rescue teams, forensic experts, social services, and community organisations, to pool resources, expertise, and efforts in locating the missing person.
-
Closure and Support: In cases where the missing person is located, efforts may focus on reuniting them with their loved ones and providing support services as needed. In cases where the missing person is not found, efforts may focus on providing closure to their family and loved ones and continuing to investigate any new leads or information that may arise.
Missing persons investigations require a coordinated, multi-disciplinary approach involving various investigative techniques, resources, and expertise to locate individuals who have disappeared and ensure their safety and well-being. These investigations are conducted with sensitivity, diligence, and a commitment to finding answers and bringing resolution to the families and loved ones of missing persons.
Intelligence Perspective utilizes any free time to investigate some missing persons cases including vulnerable individuals and those individuals evading justice.
