ALERT: Gardai appeal for help in locating boy, 16, who has been missing for nearly a week

Gardaí have issued an appeal for help in locating a 16-year-old boy who has been missing for nearly a week.

They are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of Jake Cunningham Burke from Mountmellick in County Laois, who has not been seen since June 16. 

In their appeal, issued this Saturday morning, they say Jake is described as being approximately 5 feet in height, with a slim build, black hair and green eyes. 

A spokesperson added that investigating gardai believe the teenager may have travelled from his home in Laois to the Carlow area. 

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Searches are ongoing and extensive inquiries are being made by gardai in both counties.

Anyone with any information on Jake's whereabouts is asked to contact Portlaoise garda station on 057 867 4100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.

Separately, a missing person appeal relating to a 14-year-old boy who was reported missing last weekend has been stood down. 

Gardai say Nathan Hunt-McDonagh from Ashbourne, County Meath has been found "safe and well". 

They have thanked members of the public and the media for their assistance during the appeal.