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River search for two-year-old boy to continue over the weekend

Leicestershire Police Xielo MaruzivaLeicestershire Police
Xielo Maruziva has been missing since Sunday

The search for a missing two-year-old boy who fell into a river in Leicester will continue over the weekend, police have said.

Xielo Maruziva fell into the River Soar, in the Aylestone area, at about 17:00 GMT on Sunday.

A police search to find him, involving specialist teams, is now into its sixth day.

Xielo has been described as a "bundle of joy" by his family, who said they were "so heartbroken".

PA Media Search crews look for the boy in waters near the riverPA Media
Police said the boy's family were being supported by officers

In a video update, Assistant Chief Constable Michaela Kerr confirmed teams would carry on with their search for the toddler.

She said the circumstances and weather conditions had been "incredibly difficult".

"We really appreciate both the support of the public and also the professionalism and absolute determination of colleagues from within Leicestershire Police, from partner agencies, the Environment Agency and from other forces up and down the country as we all continue to put every effort we can into finding Xielo," she added.

"I want to continue to extend my absolute thoughts to Xielo's loving family and appreciation of how very difficult this has been for them.

"We will continue our search for Xielo over the weekend, and continue to have specialist resources - we have divers and boats in the water."

PA Media Search teams in the waterPA Media
Police said the search remained "very much ongoing", despite the bad weather

The force said it would continue to use the National Police Service, drones and "really enhanced technology within the water" to locate Xielo.

In a statement issued through police on Wednesday, Xielo's family thanked everyone involved in the ongoing search.

His mother said: "Xielo is a cheeky, funny, friendly, smart, caring and independent little boy.

"He never fails to make me laugh or smile and always loves a cuddle and some kisses.

"Me, his dad and the whole family are so heartbroken at what has happened."

Xielo's father added: "Xielo is a bundle of joy to us.

"He is a charming and creative little boy and has just started at nursery.

"As a family we have been completely devastated over the past few days as the search for Xielo continues."

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