Missing sex offenders “may have left the country”

Figures released this week following a Freedom of Information request showed that 396 sex offenders had been “lost” by police nationally.

Offenders are supposed to stay in touch with the police and sign on the Sex Offenders’ Register it emerged that those “missing” included ten registered in the South Yorkshire Police area.

One of whom has since been traced, a spokeswoman said.

She added: “We strongly suspect a percentage of those missing from South Yorkshire, following investigation, are believed to be living abroad or have returned to their country of origin.”

She added: “Enquiries to locate them continue in each case and are reviewed on a weekly basis to ensure all lines of enquiry are followed.

“One missing sex offender from South Yorkshire was located and arrested in London last week.

“When registered sexual offenders (RSOs) are missing or wanted in the UK, all police forces are alerted.  

“If they return to the UK, there are several processes in place to ensure that they are brought to the attention of police and arrested where appropriate.”