A desperate search is underway to locate a boy missing in Western Sydney, with loved ones “distraught” over the 12-year-old’s welfare.
Police, State Emergency Service officers and loved ones have been searching for Hussein Al Mansoory since he was last seen running from Auburn Memorial Park towards the intersection of Station Rd and Rawson St about 10.30am Saturday.
Family hold serious concerns for his welfare, as Hussein lives with down syndrome and autism and is non-verbal.
Stream local 7NEWS free on 7plus
Auburn Police Inspector Mark Wakeham said a community member spotted Hussein near Norval St, Auburn about 9pm Saturday.
“We’re hopeful he’s still in that vicinity,” he said on Sunday morning.
“We’re asking members of the community if they could please keep a look-out for him.”
Wakeham said Hussein’s family was “very distraught” and asked residents to search their backyards, sheds and garages in case Hussein is hiding there.
“We believe he’s quite scared,” he said.
“He may walk away from members of the community if approached.”
Hussein is described as being of Middle Eastern appearance, of slim build, about 140cm tall, with short black hair, and last seen wearing a white T-shirt.
About 50 SES volunteers searched until 2am for Hussein to no avail, with crews out again on Sunday.
“We have over 50 members out there in the heat trying to find him,” NSW SES Auburn Unit Commander Jamie Newman said.
“We are hoping he’s gone to ground somewhere to avoid the heat.”
“Basically every resource we can deploy is being deployed,” Wakeham added.
Anyone with information or who sights Hussein is asked to contact Auburn Police Area Command or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.