The police found a body at a home in Geleen on Saturday. The police assume that it is nine-year-old Gino van der Straeten. The boy has been missing since Wednesday.
“The impact of this find is great for family, social workers and everyone who has searched in recent days,” the police said.
Earlier in the day, a man from Geleen was arrested in his home in connection with Gino’s disappearance. The man is suspected of kidnapping. According to the regional broadcaster L1 the suspect is 22-year-old Donny M.
Police have not yet said whether the body was found at the suspect’s home. Police will share more information at a press conference later on Saturday.
A major police investigation is underway in Geleen
A major police investigation is underway at the Opbraakstraat in Geleen. A police spokeswoman confirms that this is where the lifeless body was found.
A white tent has been set up for the investigation. Forensic investigators in white suits are on the scene. Several streets have been closed off in the area.
Gino had been missing since Wednesday evening
Gino disappeared on Wednesday evening in Kerkrade, where he was staying with one of his sisters. According to another sister, the boy went to play football on a playground. He has been missing since then.
An amber alert was sent during Thursday. The German police have also been informed about the disappearance of Gino. Kerkrade is located on the border with Germany.