What can you do to locate a missing child in a third world country?
This little girl has been known to run away - she has a history. But the longest she has been gone in the past is one week and she never really left her locale.
This time she ventured on to public transport and travelled to the far side of the city. A week later, after riding a mini bus for a few trips back and forward [and without the fee paid] the driver thought something was up. He took her to the police station. She told the police the truth about who she was and that she had run away for no particular reason.
Her carer had lodged a missing persons report and the police were able to contact her immediately. By the time she got across town Rachael was gone again. She escaped police custody; remarkable acheivement really.
This woman is beside herself with worry. She has attempted to locate the child. She is walking the streets, talking to media, searching hospitals, orphanages and remand centres to no avail.
We haven't gone to the morgue yet - that is too awful. We have fasted and prayed as a congregation and we aren't without hope. I expect her to come home.
But I do have questions. How does a child survive on the streets? Does a 9 year old know how to get back home when she grows tired of the adventure? If someone is 'looking after' her are they honorable? Is she able to get home? Is she happy or stressed?
The girl is clever, but not mentally stable. What is she doing? I can't expect to ever find out her motivation. But I would love for her to return soon.
I have heard of children going missing for up to a month and then returning home. I don't want her to wait that long. Please have her in your thoughts. She is a dear little poppet.
