Missing Student Found

The missing student Zoya Anwar has been found in Birmingham city centre.

Miss Anwar went missing on 26 February, but an intensive search by council street wardens has led to her discovery.

She had last been seen by friends at King Edward VI School in Handsworth, Birmingham, on 26 February.

Five people were arrested by police investigating the disappearance of Miss Anwar, but were released without charge.

A girl matching her description was spotted near to the Paradise Forum shopping centre in Birmingham city centre just before 23:00 on Wednesday evening.

Officers were immediately dispatched and soon confirmed the girl spotted by the wardens was Zoya.

The teen was then taken to Birmingham Central police station.

Specially trained officers are thought to be speaking to Miss Anwar to understand where she has been and what sparked her disappearance.

Detective Superintendent Jo Chilton led the hunt for Zoya.

She said: "Officers are still speaking to Zoya about the circumstances surrounding her disappearance which remain unclear at this stage. I’d really like to thank everyone who helped in our search.

"The teenager had never been missing from home before and we had some grave concerns for her welfare. I would particularly like to thank the street wardens and security guards who spotted her last night and kept her safe until police officers arrived.

"We were overwhelmed by the way in which the media and local people got behind our campaign and I would like to extend my thanks to the public for helping us find Zoya safe and well."

(IT)