A 13-year-old girl from Bolton, Greater Manchester, has been found safe after going missing for eight days. Lillia was reported missing on September 11, 2026, prompting an extensive search effort by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) across the region.

The police confirmed late on Saturday night that Lillia was located safe and well in Manchester city centre. She was reported to be with officers at the time of the announcement, and her family was immediately informed of her safe return.

Lillia had left her family home in Bolton on the morning of September 11. Over the following days, several confirmed sightings were recorded through CCTV footage at various locations in Greater Manchester. She was first seen on the evening of September 11 at Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester. On the afternoon of September 12, she was captured boarding a bus at the Trafford Centre. Further footage showed her at a McDonald’s in Piccadilly Gardens on September 13, and finally at Manchester Piccadilly bus station at 10:36 a.m. on September 14. These sightings formed the basis of the public appeals and police investigations.

In the search for Lillia, GMP released images and footage to the public in an effort to trace her whereabouts. Posters and a large advertising hoarding were placed near Piccadilly Gardens, one of the key locations linked to her movements, to encourage reports from the public.

Throughout the week, Lillia’s mother, Jessica, made emotional appeals for her daughter’s safe return. At a press conference earlier in the week, she tearfully addressed Lillia directly, expressing her love and concern and urging her to come home. Chief Superintendent Helen Critchley of GMP’s Bolton district praised the public and media for their assistance and acknowledged Jessica’s resilience during the difficult period.

The investigation involved extensive reviews of CCTV footage and tracking of bus routes Lillia was seen using. According to police, the number 36 bus, travelling from Bolton through Salford to Manchester city centre, was part of her known movements.

Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances of Lillia’s disappearance or what occurred after her last confirmed sighting. Additional information is expected to be provided in due course as the investigation continues.