Woman arrested as search goes on for Jamie (12)

DETECTIVES looking a boy missing from Swallownest since last Wednesday have arrested a woman.
Jamie O’SullivanJamie O’Sullivan
Jamie O’Sullivan

Jamie O’Sullivan (12) was reported missing from Haigh Moor Lane and enquiries continue there and in Beighton.

A 45-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of an offence under the Children Act after information suggested individuals had been deliberately hindering police efforts to find the youngster.

Det Insp Nigel Taaffe says: “We are immensely grateful for the outpouring of public support we have had in our efforts to find Jamie.

“We still believe Jamie is with people he knows and understand he has been in contact with family members.

“But our officers have a duty to ensure Jamie is safe and well, which is why our investigation continues.”

Online forums and social media pages have seen members of the community discuss setting up their own search parties.

Det Insp Nigel Taaffe said the force appreciated the offers of help — but warned that such activity could end up hindering the police operation.

He added: “We’re aware some individuals may have been given advice by officers about engaging in this type of activity, which has led to some confusion. 

“To be absolutely clear, we would ask members of the public to refrain from carrying out any activity that would normally be co-ordinated or led by specially trained police officers.

“We know many of you are worried about Jamie, as are we, but we do not support individuals going house-to-house and knocking on doors.

“We need to be sure the information gathered is brought into the investigation, which is why this type of task is completed by our officers.”

Anyone with information about Jamie is urged to call 101 or email [email protected].