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A large-scale search operation is underway in Kostanay as authorities and volunteers race against time to find 17-year-old student Vladimir Orel, who disappeared on March 17th.

Vladimir was last seen leaving his college dormitory. His last confirmed sighting was captured on surveillance cameras near Naberezhnaya Street in Kostanay late at night, after which all traces of him vanished.

A Mother's Heartbreaking Appeal

Vladimir's mother, Yulia Orel, remains hopeful for her son's safe return and has released a video message appealing to him and anyone who might have seen him.

"To those who saw him, or think they might have seen him, please report to the nearest police station or call the numbers provided. Even the smallest piece of information can increase our hope of finding him. Vova, my son, if you can hear or see me, please respond and contact us," she pleaded.

She emphasized that while she doesn't know the exact circumstances her son might be in, she believes any problem can be resolved and they are ready to help him, no matter what. Her sole wish is for his safe return.

Intensive Search Efforts

Currently, National Guard soldiers and police officers are meticulously searching the banks of the Tobol River. Volunteers have been actively involved since the first day of the disappearance. They note that the spring mud is significantly hindering the search efforts.

"We are checking forests and abandoned areas, using drones to survey the terrain from above. Volunteers then analyze the video footage, and if any suspicious objects or locations are identified, they are reported to the ground search teams. We comb the area until dark, and sometimes we even go out at night with spotlights to check," explained Vladimir Shauffler, an instructor from the 'Region 10' search and rescue squad.

Criminal Investigation Launched

The police have opened a criminal case regarding the disappearance of a minor. All necessary operational-search measures are being conducted to determine the teenager's whereabouts.

According to Zhandos Kenzhebekov, head of the criminal investigation department at the Kostanay City Police Department, over 200 people are mobilized daily for the search. "After determining from camera footage that his trail ended here, a decision was made to search the area along the Tobol River, from the Big Bridge to the Korean Bridge. We are also checking the area on the side of Tobol city. On the 19th, due to the ice melting, and since the ice was solid when the child went missing, it was possible to cross the Tobol," he explained.

Recordings from surveillance cameras, including those from the operational control center and private properties, are being examined. Police are investigating potential locations and interviewing relatives, acquaintances, and neighbors. All personnel from the Kostanay police garrison and surrounding regions are involved in the search. The case is under special supervision by the head of the police department.

The industrial college's second-year student is described as having a positive character at his educational institution.