Authorities Locate Missing Five-Month-Old Girl in Chernihiv Region; Baby Is Safe

Search for the Missing Infant

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: Law enforcement officers in the Chernihiv region have found five-month-old Anna Suslo, who had been reported missing by her mother, Oksana Khomey. The mother accused the child’s father, Arkadiy Suslo, of kidnapping. At the time of the search, the infant was with her father, and after a thorough check, officials confirmed that her health and safety were not at risk. Following the investigation, the baby was returned to her parents and accompanied by police to Kyiv.

Oksana Khomey, holding a master's degree in European Studies and a PhD in Political Science, posted on Facebook on November 8th claiming that her daughter had been abducted. She alleged that Arkadiy took the child and fled with two accomplices in an unknown direction. The couple has been living apart since September 6, 2026, and are in the process of divorce, though they remain legally married.

Police Confirmation

Kiev police confirmed that the child was located with her father in the Chernihiv region. During the investigation, officers ensured the infant’s well-being and stated that there was no threat to her life or health. The mother was present throughout the medical examination of the child.

After the verification, the parents and their daughter traveled together back to Kyiv. According to Article 141 of the Family Code of Ukraine, both mother and father hold equal rights and responsibilities regarding their child, regardless of their marital status. In disputes over the child's residence, decisions are made by guardianship authorities or the court.

Arkadiy Suslo is employed by the IT company EPAM Ukraine. The company condemned any potential violence and expressed willingness to cooperate fully with law enforcement and child protection specialists.

This case highlights the complexities surrounding child custody issues amid divorce proceedings. It is crucial that both parents remain involved in their child’s life while ensuring the child's safety is paramount. Law enforcement and social services play essential roles in managing such conflicts to prevent escalation and protect the child’s welfare.