Search for Natalia da Asenova covers over 1000 sq km, no evidence of coercion.

Senior Commissioner Tsvetan Pirovski, director of the Varna Regional Directorate of the Interior Ministry, said at a briefing that there is currently no evidence that 11-year-old Natalia Asenova was forced to leave with Asen.

Pirovski added that an area of more than 1,000 square kilometres has been searched so far, while the scope of the operation continues to expand. He also said a train driver had reported seeing the two at Yunak railway station, from where they headed on foot across the field. No police officer or volunteer saw the situation, but teams were immediately sent to the location.

The man accompanying the child has a criminal record and had cared for the girl for more than seven years, as he had lived with her mother as a partner. According to the information gathered so far, there is no evidence that the child was forced to go with him.

A total of 12 reports have been received by police since the activation of the BG-Alert system and the Amber Alert search for 11-year-old Natalia Asenova.

Police urged anyone who sees the wanted individuals to call 112 and not take any other action, as Asen may become aggressive.