An amazing story from Down Under.
Australian police have released footage of the moment 4-year-old Cleo Smith was found following her disappearance 18 days ago.
Smith had disappeared from a tent while on a family holiday near Carnarvon in Western Australia.
Her disappearance prompted a wide search for her whereabouts, with a AUS$1 million dollar reward advertised for anyone with information.
She was found in the early hours of Wednesday morning (3 November) in a locked house in Carnarvon.
A 36-year-old man is currently in custody in connection with the disappearance.
The Deputy Commissioner of Western Australia Police, Col Blanch, shared his delight at the result of the investigation in a statement on Wednesday.
“This is the outcome we all hoped and prayed for. It’s the outcome we’ve achieved because of some incredible police work”, Blanch said.
“I want to thank Cleo’s parents, the Western Australian community and the many volunteers. And of course, I want to thank my colleagues in the Western Australia Police Force.
“I can confirm we have a man from Carnarvon in custody who is currently being questioned by detectives. We’ll have more to say on the rescue of Cleo as the day unfolds”, he added.
“For now – Welcome home Cleo.”
In footage released by Australian police, Cleo can be seen being carried out of the house she was locked in, with detectives reassuring her: “We’re going to take you to see your mummy and daddy”.
The moment Cleo was rescued 👏 pic.twitter.com/arusYi9kCa
— WA Police Force (@WA_Police) November 3, 2021
The Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison posted a tweet to share his relief at Cleo’s reappearance.
“What wonderful, relieving news. Cleo Smith has been found and is home safe and sound. Our prayers answered. Thank you to the many police officers involved in finding Cleo and supporting her family.”
What wonderful, relieving news.
Cleo Smith has been found and is home safe and sound.
Our prayers answered.
Thank you to the many police officers involved in finding Cleo and supporting her family.
— Scott Morrison (@ScoMo30) November 2, 2021
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