Missing Unaccompanied Child Found in Edirne; 13 Still Sought

The Ministry of Family and Social Services announced on October 13, 2026, that one of fourteen unaccompanied foreign children who did not return to their facility after receiving permission to go to a market has come back. The ministry stated that search operations are ongoing for the other thirteen children, who were identified within the scope of irregular migration.

Clarification on Legal Status

In a statement issued via its social media account, the ministry addressed reports appearing in certain press outlets. It clarified that the children involved are not under state protection but are unaccompanied foreign nationals detected during irregular migration procedures. The ministry emphasized that the term "children under state protection," used in some news reports, does not accurately reflect the current status of these individuals.

Incident Timeline and Response

The fourteen children had been handed over to the Directorate of the Edirne First Acceptance Arda Children's Houses Site. On October 11, they were granted permission to visit a market but failed to return to the facility afterward. Once the absence was noticed, law enforcement agencies were informed, and efforts to locate the children began immediately.

Ongoing Search Operations

While one child has returned to the institution, the search for the remaining thirteen continues. The ministry noted that the safety and best interests of the children remain the priority. It added that the process is being coordinated with relevant institutions and monitored closely.