A Syrian father kidnaps his two sons while they are on their way to school in Vienna
Two young brothers, aged seven and eight, have been reported kidnapped in the Leopoldstadt district of Vienna while on their way to school, prompting a nationwide search. The children have been missing since Wednesday morning, raising concerns throughout the city.
The incident occurred at 7:45 AM on Wednesday when the children did not arrive at school. The State Criminal Police Office immediately launched an intensive investigation after the school reported their disappearance, raising concerns about their safety.
Authorities are now searching throughout Austria, more than 31 hours after the disappearance. The details of the timeline of the incident are still being withheld for investigative reasons, while the police continue to explore all possible leads.
Reports indicate that the Syrian father is a suspect in the kidnapping of his children, seemingly related to a custody dispute with his wife. Investigators warn that he may attempt to flee abroad, and he is now under investigation for child abduction.
Posts on Facebook indicate that the children were taken in a blue Lexus, although the police confirm that the search is not limited to the family circle only. Vienna police are urgently working to locate the children and ensure their safe return.