A missing teenager who was reportedly lured by a man through social media has been located, according to the Western Australia Police. The boy, deemed “vulnerable,” engaged in an online conversation with a stranger who enticed him to his residence by arranging a rideshare vehicle to collect him from his home earlier this month. His family promptly notified the authorities about his disappearance.
In response, police launched an extensive investigation, enlisting the help of international law enforcement to locate the suspect. The search concluded successfully when both the teenager and the 30-year-old man were discovered not far from the boy’s home in Cloverdale, Perth. The man has been charged with sexual assault against the teenager and is currently in custody, awaiting a hearing at the Perth Magistrates Court on July 31.
The WA Police have issued a warning to the community, highlighting the potential dangers associated with meeting individuals online. They emphasised that online child sexual abuse can occur swiftly and often without the awareness of parents and guardians. For those requiring support, the Kids Helpline can be reached at 1800 55 1800, and there is also assistance available through the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).