13.10.2026 17:29
One of the 14 unaccompanied foreign children in Edirne who did not return after going out with permission to the market returned to the institution. The Ministry of Family and Social Services reported that search efforts are continuing for the other 13 children with refugee status within the scope of irregular migration.
The Ministry of Family and Social Services announced that one of the 14 unaccompanied foreign national children who did not return to the facility where they were staying in Edirne has returned, and efforts continue to find the other 13 children.
In its statement following news reports in some media outlets, the Ministry provided information about the status of the children and clarified the misunderstanding in public opinion.
STATEMENT ON THE STATUS OF THE CHILDREN
In the statement made on the Ministry's social media account, it was stated that the children in question were not children under state protection, but unaccompanied foreign national children identified within the scope of irregular migration.
In the statement, it was emphasized that the phrase “children under state protection” used in the news reports did not accurately reflect the current status of the children.
THEY DID NOT RETURN AFTER MARKET PERMISSION
It was reported that the 14 children handed over to the Edirne Initial Reception Arda Children's Homes Site Directorate under the Ministry did not return to the facility where they were staying after the market permission given to them on October 11.
It was noted that after the situation was noticed, law enforcement units were informed and work was initiated to find the children.
SEARCH EFFORTS CONTINUE FOR 13 CHILDREN
In the statement, it was stated that one of the children returned to the facility, while efforts to find the other 13 children continue.
Emphasizing that the safety and best interests of the children are a priority, the Ministry reported that the process is being carried out in coordination with the relevant institutions and is closely monitored.