Police are growing increasingly concerned for the welfare of a missing 16-year-old from Nigeria who had been staying with a foster carer in Basildon.

An Essex Police spokesman said Irene Loloko, who flew into Britain via Stansted Airport on September 21, had not been seen since February 24, when she was at Pitsea library.

Officers said her immigration status was under investigation but that their primary concern was for her safety.

Although nothing has happened to suggest any harm has come to her, police say they are concerned at the prospect of a 16-year-old alone in a strange country.

Irene had been staying with a foster carer in Basildon and had been under supervision by social services since arriving alone in England.

Anyone knowing of her whereabouts should contact police at Basildon on 01268 532212

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