AKIPRESS.COM - Security at local schools and kindergartens of Uzbekistan has been tightened after disappearance of several children in southwestern Bukhara province, Radio Liberty reported.

The body of one of the missing children, an 11-year-old girl, was found in a ditch on May 12. The cause of her death is not known, according to a source in the Bukhara's Interior Directorate.

The children have reportedly been abducted near schools and kindergartens over the past two months.

It is not clear how many children have gone missing in recent weeks. No demands from any kidnappers have been received.

The authorities have urged caution and asked the parents to sign written pledges taking full responsibility for their children’s safety on their way to and from schools.