In Australia, more than 38,000 people are reported missing each year.
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While most people are found within a short period of time, there remain approximately 1,600 long-term missing persons.
These people who vanished leaving behind loved ones and questions are the focus of Missing Persons Week, which kicked off on Sunday.
Currently in NSW more than 160 people are reported missing each week.
For their family and friends, the wait for contact or information can be agonising.
Being reported missing is not a crime and it is the aim of the NSW Police Force to ascertain if the missing person is safe and well.
“While nearly all people reported as missing are located, most often alive and well, there are always a number of cases each year that remain unsolved,” Minister for Police Troy Grant said.
“It is hard to fathom the pain and anguish that the families and friends of those missing a loved must endure.
“The emotional stress takes a toll and can affect everything from their health and wellbeing, to work responsibilities and even their other personal relationships.
“If you have information about a missing person, please do the right thing and contact NSW Police.”
Missing Persons Week is an annual national campaign to raise awareness of the issues and impacts surrounding missing persons. It runs between Sunday August 5 and Saturday August 11.
This year’s campaign commemorates 30 years.
Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000
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