Missing teenager found and man arrested on suspicion of child abduction offences

Charlie Smith, 13 was last seen in the afternoon of October 3 on Beaufort Road, Bournemouth.

Following enquiries, Dorset Police issued a renewed CCTV appeal of Charlie in the company of a man in the Jumpers Road area of Christchurch before they both boarded a train to London Waterloo.

As a result of extensive and ongoing investigation, officers have located Charlie this morning (October 6) at an address in London.

His family has been informed and are being supported.

A 26-year-old man from London has been arrested on suspicion of child abduction offences in connection with the incident.

He remains in police custody at this time.

Chief Inspector Aimee Schock, of Dorset Police, said: “Following enquiries by officers, we are pleased to confirm that Charlie has been found. An investigation into the circumstances is now underway.

“We would like to thank our officers who have worked tirelessly in the search for him, as well as everyone who shared our appeal.

“I would also like to thank officers from British Transport Police and the Metropolitan Police who also assisted in the search for Charlie.”