Child abduction refers to the unlawful taking or keeping of a child, typically by someone who does not have legal custody. This can occur in various situations, including parental disputes or when a stranger takes a child. The act is considered a serious crime and can have lasting emotional and psychological effects on the child and their family. There are different types of child abduction, such as family abduction, where a relative takes a child without permission, and stranger abduction, where a non-related person kidnaps a child. Law enforcement agencies work to prevent and respond to these incidents to ensure the safety of children.