Lorraine Williamson
When a loved one goes missing, it’s essential to act quickly. This article provides guidance on what to do, including contact information, tips for filing a report, and information about the National Missing Persons Centre in Spain.
Two years ago today, Levi Davis went missing. He was last seen at the Old Irish Pub in the popular La Rambla area of Barcelona. However, a recent article by Byline Times suggests fresh evidence of blackmail against the former English rugby winger.
The Council of Europe defines a missing person as “a person who is absent from their usual place of residence for no known or apparent reason, with serious concerns for their safety and welfare.” Missing persons can be classified into three categories:
- Voluntary Disappearances
- Involuntary Disappearances
- Forced Disappearances
If someone you know has disappeared, this classification can guide your next steps with the authorities.
Make a report: Immediate steps
When someone you know goes missing, don’t wait—report it as soon as possible. Quick reporting enables the police to take prompt action, increasing the chances of a safe return. Here are the primary steps:
Contact authorities immediately:
- Guardia Civil: Call 062
- National Police: Call 091
Gather information:
- Full name, date of birth, physical description, and a recent photo
- Last known location and time seen
- Information on any health conditions or required medications
Conduct a quick search:
- Before reporting, check their last known location or usual residence to ensure they aren’t nearby.
Filing a missing person report
You do not need to wait 24 hours to report a missing person in Spain. Filing a report early is crucial, especially in cases involving children or elderly people.
Information to include in the report
- Personal Details: Full name, birthdate, height, weight, hair color, eye color, and clothing last seen wearing.
- Health and Medical History: Neurodegenerative conditions, chronic illnesses, disabilities, or medications.
- Additional Information: Recent photograph, and any special conditions that could affect the search.
National Missing Persons Centre (CNDES)
The National Missing Persons Centre (CNDES) under Spain’s Ministry of the Interior manages and coordinates cases of missing persons. The CNDES partners with law enforcement, other public and private institutions, and the media to ensure quick and broad alerts about missing persons.
Functions of the CNDES
- Issue Alerts: Distributes alerts nationwide and internationally.
- Coordinate with Organisations: Collaborates with agencies, family associations, and media for widespread coverage.
- Legislative Proposals: Recommends changes to improve investigations.
- Statistical Reporting: Publishes data on missing persons to aid research and public awareness.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to wait 24 hours before reporting?
No. Reporting should occur as soon as possible to allow a swift response.
What is an AMBER Alert?
An AMBER Alert is a public alert system for missing minors believed to be in danger, encouraging public assistance in finding them.
What if the missing person is spotted elsewhere?
Provide any new information to the initial reporting authority; you don’t need to file a new report.
Alerts
If you want an alert issued for a missing loved one, contact the CNDES when you file the report. Providing a recent photograph will help them publish the alert, which remains active until the investigation concludes.
For more information on how to handle cases of missing persons, visit the National Missing Persons Centre website.
Also read: Levi Davis has still not been found exactly 2 years on today