Police Close Investigation into Alex Batty’s Six-Year Disappearance

Greater Manchester Police have officially closed their criminal investigation into the disappearance of Alex Batty from Oldham, which spanned from 30 September 2017 to 13 December 2023. The 17-year-old and his grandmother Susan have been informed of the decision.

Detectives launched the investigation after Batty was found in Toulouse, France in 2023, following an extensive search that lasted more than six years. Despite exploring all possible lines of enquiry over the past year, officers concluded there were insufficient grounds to pursue criminal prosecution.

Detective Superintendent Matt Walker, who led the investigation, stated: “Alex and his safety has been at the forefront of our minds and actions since he was found in Toulouse, France in 2023. In our commitment to protecting children, we felt it was important that the circumstances of Alex’s disappearance be properly and thoroughly investigated. I led a dedicated team to do exactly that when Alex was first found, and this has continued since.”

The investigation involved consultation with various partners including a complex case CPS lawyer and the National Crime Agency. Walker added: “We have consulted with various partners, such as a complex case CPS lawyer and the National Crime Agency throughout, and concluded there would be no realistic chance of criminal prosecution. Given this, the right thing to do is bring closure to this chapter of Alex and his family’s lives, particularly as this is the outcome they wished for. Alex is now an adult, safe, and reintegrated with life back in Greater Manchester surrounded by those who love him, which ultimately is the priority.”

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