In Weilburg, a small town in Germany, the search for six-year-old Pawlos has entered its fourth day, with authorities and volunteers tirelessly working to locate the missing child. Pawlos was last seen on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, when he unexpectedly left his special needs school during lunch. The police have intensified their efforts, employing various resources including divers and aerial support, but so far, there have been no significant leads.
As of Friday, March 28, 2025, the police confirmed that divers from both the police and fire department had scoured the Lahn River without discovering any clues. “We continue to assume that we can find Pawlos alive,” stated a police spokesperson, emphasizing that they are pursuing every possible lead. The search will continue over the weekend, involving a two-digit number of police officers.
Pawlos is described as being on the autism spectrum, which complicates the search. His mother made a heartfelt appeal through loudspeakers, saying, “Pawlos, here is your mother. Come out and don't hide. We miss you.” This emotional message, delivered in Eritrean, is part of the police's broader strategy to attract Pawlos' attention.
New developments in the case include the examination of a video that possibly shows Pawlos on a busy street, accompanied by a man who appears to be helping him off the road. The police believe it is “very likely” that the boy in the video is Pawlos, and they are currently in contact with the individual who recorded it. This video, reportedly taken on the same day he went missing, has been shared widely on social media, prompting authorities to urge the public to refrain from speculation.
Witnesses reported that Pawlos left his school around 12:45 PM, and his absence was noted within a minute. The school immediately initiated a search, and parents were notified shortly thereafter. The last known location of Pawlos is now considered to be the area depicted in the video, rather than the train station where he was initially believed to have been seen.
Authorities have received numerous tips from the public, which are currently being prioritized and investigated. The police have set up a dedicated hotline at 06431/91 40 599 for anyone with information regarding Pawlos’ whereabouts. They have also advised that if anyone sees him, they should not approach him directly due to his skittish nature but instead call the emergency number 110.
Despite the extensive search efforts involving over 600 personnel, including police, firefighters, and volunteers, there have been no substantial findings. The search has included the deployment of helicopters, boats, and even mounted police units. Local residents have shown immense support, with colorful balloons placed around the city to attract Pawlos’ attention, a method inspired by previous searches for missing autistic children.
Pawlos is described as adventurous and active, which adds complexity to the search. He enjoys water and trains, leading authorities to focus their search efforts around these areas. The police have emphasized the importance of community involvement, asking residents to check their properties and surrounding areas for any signs of the boy.
As the search continues, the emotional toll on Pawlos’ family and the local community is palpable. Many have gathered along the riverbanks, anxiously watching the search efforts unfold. One relative, who traveled from Switzerland, expressed hope, stating, “We just hope that we find him alive.”
The community has rallied together, with many offering assistance in the search. However, local officials have requested that volunteers refrain from organizing their own search parties, as this could complicate the police efforts. They have assured the public that all necessary resources are being deployed to find Pawlos.
As the investigation unfolds, the police continue to stress that they do not suspect foul play in Pawlos’ disappearance. They remain focused on finding him and are closely monitoring all incoming tips and leads. Mayor Johannes Hanisch has urged residents to remain vigilant and to report any sightings of the boy immediately.
The search for Pawlos is not just a local concern; it has attracted attention from across the region, with many hoping for a safe return. As the days pass, the community remains united in their efforts, holding onto hope that Pawlos will be found soon.
Authorities continue to appeal to the public for assistance, reminding everyone of the importance of staying alert and reporting any relevant information. The search for Pawlos is ongoing, and the community's support is crucial in the days ahead.
