Law enforcement has intensified mixed patrols throughout Antananarivo in response to public anxiety over child disappearances. Mixed forces comprising police, gendarmes, and military personnel patrolled the 67 Ha district on foot yesterday afternoon, moving in single file through the streets. "We are focusing on strong visibility to show the population that the defense forces are here for them," said the patrol leader during the briefing.

The teams covered the main streets of 67 Ha before reaching the BEPC examination center. "The population will be informed to alert law enforcement of any suspicious behavior or events," he added.

Residents expressed surprise at the scale of deployment. "We haven't seen such mobilization since the lockdown period," said Étienne Ramilison, a merchant in Ankasina at 67 Ha.

Despite this show of force, anxiety persists among residents, particularly during school holidays when children remain home while parents work. Many have taken exceptional measures. "We decided to bring our children to work because there's no one to watch them at home," said Eliane, a merchant in Antohomadinika Sud, deeply troubled by the discovery of a young man's body in her neighborhood.

Other parents have restricted their children's movements. "Now they cannot leave home. Their only play area is right in front of our shop," said Herison, a merchant in Ankasina and father of four.

Parents are demanding stronger security measures. "It's unfortunate these forces only pass through. They should stay in all neighborhoods to reassure us more," said Tantely Randriamarosoa, a vendor. Herison believes plainclothes patrols would be more effective. "Uniformed patrols lack efficiency. When criminals see them, they hide, then resume activities once they leave," he argued.

Mixed patrols are expected to continue in coming days.

172 Children Disappear in Six Months

According to the National Police report, 172 children were reported missing in Madagascar during the first six months of this year. Of these, 164 are classified as disappearances, while eight children have died. 119 cases were recorded in the Analamanga region and 45 in the other 23 regions. To date, 81 missing children have been found—63 in Analamanga and 18 in other regions. However, 83 children remain missing, including those who returned home without notifying authorities.