Search Intensifies for Missing 71-Year-Old Juha in Haparanda

Man Missing in Haparanda

Police received a report at 18:56 on Friday that Juha, 71, had disappeared in Haparanda. According to a relative, he has been missing since 12:30 on Friday.

Police patrols are searching for the man, who is reported to be in good shape and capable of walking long distances.

Reinforcements from Finland

A police helicopter was dispatched to the area on Saturday morning, and the Home Guard, as well as mountain rescue teams, are joining the search, according to the police website. Swedish police have also requested reinforcements from Finland.

The search effort was expanded on Saturday afternoon. The Armed Forces will use drones, and the police have contacted the organization Missing People.

"We are waiting for a thermal camera to be used in the search overnight. On Sunday, we plan to reach out to the public for a search party. We are collaborating with the police and relatives," said Birgitta Mellberg, operations manager at Missing People in Norrbotten, on Saturday.

Equipped with Airtag

The 71-year-old disappeared on Highway 99 before Norra Marielundsvägen near the Finnish border, so police say he may also be in Finland.

The police description reads:

"The man is 175 cm tall and has a slim build. He was wearing a black jacket, blue jeans, and a black cap at the time of his disappearance."

According to the police, the 71-year-old was carrying an airtag, a small tracking device, when he disappeared. The police website states:

"The public in the area is urged to turn on their Bluetooth and location services on their mobile phones. If you detect an unknown airtag, contact the police at 112 so we can investigate."