Astana launched a large-scale search for two lost children after the boys became disoriented in thick grass on the outskirts of the city, the website infohub.kz reports.
The capital's police department said it received a call from two minors aged 11 and 14. The children told officers they had lost their way in open country on the outskirts of the capital and needed help.
It emerged that the minors were heading into the city across open terrain with tall grass and dense vegetation, where they lost their bearings and could not find the way on their own.
"A group was formed to organize the search, comprising more than 200 police officers, Emergency Situations Ministry personnel, National Guard servicemen and volunteers. A service search dog and special equipment were also deployed in the search operation. Participants combed the surrounding area and possible locations of the children," the police department said.
Both children were soon found and safely handed over to their parents.
It was stressed that administrative measures were taken against the minors' legal guardian, who was held liable for improperly fulfilling duties to raise and ensure the safety of the children. Police officers also held a preventive talk with the minors.
"Police urge parents not to neglect their children's safety, to know where they are and what routes they take, and to regularly explain the rules of behavior in unfamiliar terrain," the officers said.