Israeli Police Conduct Extensive Search for Missing 4-Year-Old Boy in Ashkelon Dunes

A four-year-old boy named Yuval Kogen went missing on Thursday afternoon in the dunes area between the cliff and the beach at Hof Hofit in Ashkelon. The initial report was received at 1:00 PM from the boy's father, who said they were together near the dunes when Yuval suddenly disappeared from sight. The police are investigating all possible leads, including the father's account, to reconstruct the events leading to the disappearance.

The search area is challenging due to its geography, which includes a steep cliff, wide dune strips, and an open waterline. The beach is not designated for swimming and lacks lifeguard services and breakwaters, complicating rescue efforts. Extensive search operations are underway involving aerial units, marine police, police volunteer divers, and dozens of volunteers combing the area by air, sea, and land.

Ashkelon's mayor, Tomer Glam, visited the scene to monitor emergency response efforts. The city’s rescue unit "Magen," along with municipal enforcement and police forces, are conducting thorough searches across all possible terrain in the dunes and beach area. Police urge anyone with information to contact emergency services immediately, emphasizing that even small details could be crucial to finding Yuval and bringing him home safely.

Videos from the scene show the large-scale coordinated effort by Israeli police, special units, and volunteers racing against time to locate the missing child. The investigation and search continue intensively as authorities keep all investigative avenues open.