Search for missing 13-year-old enters seventh day in Wasit

WASIT — The disappearance of 13-year-old Mohammed Mahdi from the Al-Mufaqiyah district in Wasit has entered its seventh day, as the boy’s family and local authorities intensify their search for answers.

The family reported Mohammed missing after he failed to return home last Saturday evening. Despite informing security forces, no trace of the boy has been found.

Rumors circulating in the city suggest that the boy may have been kidnapped. According to these reports, the family has allegedly received a ransom demand, though they have remained silent on the specifics. Investigators say the family maintains they have no known disputes or enemies.

“The boy, a seventh grader, has been missing for about a week now. All specialized security units are actively investigating to uncover the truth behind his disappearance,” Habib Al-Badri, head of the Security Committee in the Wasit Provincial Council, told 964media.

The investigation has faced technical setbacks, including a power outage and malfunctioning surveillance cameras at the time of the incident, delaying progress. “The family has not accused anyone, and they say they have no issues with anyone,” Al-Badri added.

Despite these challenges, Al-Badri reassured the public that security forces are “very close” to uncovering key details, though he withheld further information to protect the investigation. “Specialized security teams are giving this case top priority,” he emphasized.