An urgent request has been issued to locate a 12-year-old boy from East London, whose absence the Metropolitan Police have stated is “completely out of character.”

Yafee was last spotted by a family member shortly after 5:00 PM GMT on Thursday on Khartoum Road in Newham. Despite extensive searches by both his relatives and police, he remains missing.

Detective Inspector Sam Lockstone from the Met expressed growing concern as time passes, stating, “With each hour that goes by since Yafee was last seen, our worry intensifies.”

The young boy is described as having an Asian appearance, with brown hair, a medium build, and standing approximately 5 feet 4 inches tall (1.6 meters). At the time he was last seen, he was dressed in a school uniform, which included a black blazer, black trousers, and a black and yellow tie.

He was reported missing at 8:40 PM. The police have indicated that he might have been alone on the streets last night without a phone or any way to get assistance.

“Please be vigilant and watch for any sign of Yafee. If you think you may have seen someone matching his description, even if you’re unsure, please reach out to us right away,” urged Det Insp Lockstone.

The Metropolitan Police have advised anyone spotting Yafee to call 999 immediately and reference 7098/04DEC.

Additionally, anyone with other information regarding his location should contact 101, using the same reference.