Neuilly-Plaisance, France – A week-long search is underway for Madoua Dembele, a four-year-ancient boy with autism who went missing on February 25, 2026, in Neuilly-Plaisance, Seine-Saint-Denis. The disappearance has sparked widespread concern, and authorities are urging anyone with information to arrive forward. The case has also prompted questions about the speed of the initial response from authorities, with the boy’s family expressing frustration.
Madoua was last seen on the afternoon of February 25th near an area of the promenade André-Devambez along the Marne river, while playing with his mother. According to police reports, Madoua briefly escaped his mother’s attention and was then seen running in the direction of Perreux-sur-Marne. The search, encompassing approximately 34 kilometers across Seine-Saint-Denis, Val-de-Marne, and Paris, involves hundreds of police officers and military personnel, according to officials.
Details of the Search and Madoua’s Description
Authorities have been utilizing extensive resources in the search, including divers, canine units, and drones. Sounds of Madoua’s parents and sister’s voices have been broadcast in an attempt to attract or reassure him, La Dépêche reports. Madoua is described as a four-year-old boy of African descent, standing less than one meter tall with a slim build, short, kinky hair, and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a blue pull-over with red shoulder pads, a yellow t-shirt, grey and black trousers, and black velcro sneakers without socks. He may have faint chickenpox scars on his body and face.
Because Madoua has autism and is non-verbal, authorities emphasize his inability to ask for facilitate or orient himself. This significantly complicates the search efforts.
Concerns Raised Over Initial Response
The Brigade de protection des mineurs (Minor Protection Brigade) was assigned to the case on March 2nd, five days after Madoua’s disappearance. Yassine Bouzrou, the family’s lawyer, has publicly criticized this timeline, calling it a “serious failing,” according to La Dépêche. Bouzrou stated that the initial inertia and lack of transparency towards the family are “incomprehensible,” and that the limited visibility surrounding the disappearance has been detrimental.
#AppelàTémoin | Disparition inquiétante de personne mineure, vue pour la dernière fois le 25/02/2026 à #NeuillyPlaisance (93).La brigade de protection des mineurs est saisie de la poursuite de l’enquête. Si vous avez des informations, merci de contacter :📞 01 87 27 81 07… pic.twitter.com/S0NO1EZWn7
— Préfecture de Police (@prefpolice) March 5, 2026
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Madoua’s whereabouts to contact investigators at 01 87 27 81 07, a dedicated hotline available 24/7, or to email [email protected].
The search for Madoua Dembele continues, and authorities are maintaining a significant presence in the area. The focus remains on locating the young boy and bringing him home safely. As the investigation progresses, authorities will continue to analyze surveillance footage and follow up on any leads received from the public.
If you have any information, no matter how minor, please contact the authorities. Share this article to help spread awareness and aid in the search for Madoua.
