Missing Abroad
Description
In this episode we talk to Bill Andrerson from Locate International, an NGO that raises awareness and supports families during situations where people go missing abroad. Each year, thousands of people go missing while traveling, living, or working abroad due to a range of circumstances. Disappearances may result from accidents, natural disasters, crime, or abduction, including cases linked to human trafficking or violence. Mental health issues can also lead individuals to become lost or disoriented, while some choose to disappear voluntarily to escape personal problems. Efforts to locate missing persons abroad face challenges such as jurisdictional barriers, lack of local resources, language and cultural differences, and delayed reporting by family members.
International organizations like Interpol, through Yellow Notices, and foreign embassies work with local authorities to assist in searches. Nonprofits and humanitarian groups also play a key role in raising awareness and supporting families during these difficult situations.
Guests
Bill’s policing career began in Glasgow, Scotland, where he initially served in traditional first-responder duties. His roles expanded to include the Support Unit and Firearms Training. Later, he joined the Royal Hong Kong Police as a Detective Inspector, investigating serious crimes. Upon returning to the UK, Bill continued his service in Criminal Investigation, Intelligence, and Counter Terrorism, ultimately retiring as a Detective Chief Inspector in Special Branch after 33 years.
Following his retirement, Bill took on International Policing Assistance and Consultancy roles in Europe, the Middle East, the Far East, the Indian Ocean, and the Pacific regions. His work has been with the UK College of Policing (International Academy), the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office, and the United Nations. Bill began volunteering with Locate International in 2022, contributing to both International and Community Investigation Teams.
Bill holds a Law Degree (LL.B) and is a Member of the Security Institute (MSyI).