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Why do police ask for no speculation?

When a person goes missing, especially a child, police often ask the public not to speculate. This is because rumours or incorrect information can hinder the search efforts, cause distress to the family, and potentially lead to misinformation spreading online. It helps them focus on the facts of the investigation.

Stories that explain this

Search continues for 13-year-old boy missing off Hornsea coast

Related explainers

Who are HM Coastguard? What is a 'promenade'? What is the RNLI? Why ask the public? Why avoid speculation? Who are British Transport Police? Who conducts police reviews? Why criticise the police?

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