The SOS Desaparecidos Association alerts the Ombudsman to "the disappearances and runaways of minors" that occur "with alarming frequency" in centers under the tutelage of the State. In a letter addressed to Ángel Gabilondo, it emphasizes the "serious problem" that affects minors who are under the tutelage of the State in protection centers.
In this sense, it highlights that "in recent years, numerous cases of minors escaping from protection centers have been reported and at the same time increased." Thus, it has indicated that "it reveals a worrying failure in security and supervision systems."
SOS Desaparecidos adds that "this situation not only puts the lives of minors at risk, but also demonstrates a lack of adequate attention and protection by the responsible authorities."
The association states that minors under the tutelage of the State are "in a situation of extreme vulnerability, many of them have been victims of abuse, abandonment or exploitation." In addition, it highlights that "it is essential" that protection centers fulfill their function of "offering a safe and stable environment" for their development.
"The constant runaways and disappearances are a clear sign that something is failing," he highlights.
SOS urges the Ombudsman to investigate the causes of the disappearances and runaways of minors from protection centers and asks that measures be taken.
In addition, it asks that security and supervision protocols be reviewed and improved; that resources and personnel be increased; that psychological and social support programs be increased; that the conditions of the centers and the measures to prevent runaways be controlled.
SOS Desaparecidos also emphasizes the importance of the Prosecutor's Office for Minors acting in the "inducement of abandonment of the home" and assures that the majority of these runaways are "mostly" manipulated by adults.
