Share
18th December 2023
08:36am GMT
Missing boy Alex Batty has been reunited with his family after disappearing six years ago.
The young boy failed to return home from a family holiday in 2017.
His grandmother, who is his legal guardian, said she still cannot believe he is back.
Alex was reunited with his grandmother and other family members this weekend.
He handed himself over to police in France after reportedly escaping from a spiritual community.
He was reportedly living in the community with his mother and grandfather.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Boyle issued a statement following Alex's return.
"It gives me great pleasure to say that Alex has now made his safe return back to the UK after six years.
Boyle added: "This moment was undoubtedly huge for him and his loved ones, and we are glad that they have been able to see each other again after all this time.
“Before being found by a member of the public close to Toulouse on the evening of Wednesday 13 December 2023, Alex had been missing since 2017.
“We are aware that the French authorities disclosed detailed information during yesterday’s press conference relating to what Alex may have been doing, and where he has been, over his years missing."
He confirmed they have not yet spoken to Alex about what exactly happened.
However, police have vowed to do so at a pace that is comfortable to him.
Police stressed that supporting Alex Batty during this unthinkable time is their main priority.
Explore more on these topics:
