Police hunt missing nine-year-old boy Austin McGovern who failed to return home overnight

A nine-year-old boy has been reported missing after disappearing overnight in East Lothian.

Austin McGovern was last seen around 7.05pm on Friday near Rowan Street in Dunbar.

Police said concern for the youngster is growing after he failed to return home and extensive enquiries overnight failed to trace him.

Members of the public are being urged to check any sheds or outbuilding as Austin may have sought shelter there overnight.

Officers are carrying out door-to-door enquiries and are gathering CCTV footage which will be reviewed in a bid to locate the child.

Police later urged members of the public not to fly drones in the search area for the missing boy as it is “hindering the police operation”.

While we are grateful for the continued support in the efforts to trace Austin McGovern, we would ask the public to please refrain from flying drones in the search area as it is hindering the police operation. Thank you for your concern and assistance. pic.twitter.com/GXFUCdRKct
— East Lothian Police (@EastLothPolice) September 10, 2022

Austin is described as being around 4ft 4in, with a stocky build and light brown hair. When he was last seen, he was wearing a red T-shirt and black trousers.

Inspector Caroline Herbert said:” A number of specialist resources are being used in our search for Austin, we are also liaising with partner agencies.

“Austin is only nine years old and it is totally out of character for him to go missing. His family is, understandably, very worried and just want to know he is safe and well.

“I am appealing to anyone who may have seen Austin or have any knowledge as to his whereabouts to contact us as a matter of urgency.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 4077 of Friday, September 9, 2022.