TWO people have been arrested in connection with the disappearance of the Matloch brothers.

Officers at Northumbria Police were tonight handing out missing posters to commuters at Newcastle Central Station in the hope someone saw Remus, 15, Janko and David, ten, on Monday night., when they were reported missing.

A statement issued by the force said: "Following enquiries, police arrested two people, a man aged 34 and a woman aged 39, at an address in Birmingham at approximately 11pm on Wednesday.

“They have both been arrested in connection with the boys disappearance. They are currently in custody in the West Midlands where Northumbria Police have sent detectives to question them.

“Enquiries are continuing in both Birmingham and in London.”

The brothers failed to return to their Sunderland foster home following a bike ride on Monday and they were captured on CCTV at about 6pm walking from Newcastle Central Station towards the Centre for Life.

The Polish youngsters, who are still missing, are thought to have had about £60 with them and no passports.

They have been fostered since a family break-up.

One theory about their disappearance is the brothers may have gone to meet a friend or relative.

The posters and leaflets were produced with the charity Missing People.

Remus is described as 5ft 7ins, slim, with dark hair in a big quiff at the front and shaved at the back. He was last seen wearing black joggers, a baseball cap and a blue T-shirt.

Janko, 12, is 4ft 8ins, of medium build, and has fairer hair styled in a quiff and short at the back. He was wearing black joggers, a white sleeveless T-shirt and grey hooded jacket.

David, ten, is 4ft 8ins, chubby and has shaggy dark brown hair. He was wearing shorts and a green sleeveless T-shirt and a grey hooded jacket.

Superintendent Alan Veitch, of Northumbria Police, said: "I would again appeal for anyone who thinks they may seen the three brothers to contact police straight away.

"As time goes on we are increasingly concerned for the welfare of the boys and we need assistance from the public to help us find them safe and well.

"This is a fast moving enquiry and we are liaising with forces around the country."

Anyone with information should contact Northumbria Police on 101, extension 69191, ring Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111, or text or call Missing People on 116 000.