A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after the body of a missing 14-year-old schoolgirl, Lilly Jones, was found hidden in dense undergrowth in Blaina, South Wales. The discovery was made on Monday evening, approximately 48 hours after Lilly was last seen. Residents involved in the search efforts reported that the body had been intentionally concealed.

Search teams had scoured Duffryn Park and surrounding areas for over two days without success. The body was found around 10:10 p.m. in an area of dense undergrowth next to a cycle path, reportedly just 50 yards from the town's bowls club and less than 500 yards from Lilly's family home. Two young people who were part of the search found the body.

Volunteers described searching close to the spot where Lilly was found, noting that she must have been covered up. Local councillors have expressed devastation over the incident, with one stating the community is in a state of disbelief and worry. Lilly, described as a quiet and gentle teenager, was last seen around 6:50 p.m. on Saturday in the town's High Street, wearing a long black dress and black sandals. It is understood her phone was switched off approximately 20 minutes before she was last seen.

Gwent Police have launched a murder investigation and have a significant presence in the area. Forensic officers were seen scouring the scene, with a forensic tent erected in Pilgrims Park. Gwent Police has launched a murder investigation with forensic officers scouring the scene The park, which is primarily used by bowls club members and as a shortcut, has been sealed off. Temperatures in the area reached 32.5C, with gazebos erected to shelter officers.

Lilly's family, including parents Karl and Gemma Jones, have been informed and are being supported by a family liaison officer and relatives. Her mother had made desperate appeals for her safe return. The arrest of a 14-year-old boy, whose family reportedly recently moved to the area, is central to the ongoing investigation. The park - which is only used by bowls club members and people taking a short cut to the town centre - remains sealed off

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas urged anyone with information to contact the police and cautioned against online speculation due to the active investigation. Gwent Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) regarding the matter. A floral tribute was left close to Pilgrims Park where the body of 14-year-old Lilly was found St Peter's Church in Blaina has opened its doors for community members to light candles and offer condolences.