The Metropolitan Police have concluded an extensive eight-day search for the remains of Muriel McKay at a farm in Hertfordshire without success. Detective Superintendent Katherine Goodwin expressed deep regret over the outcome, emphasizing the thoroughness of the investigation and the disappointment of not being able to provide closure to McKay’s family.
Muriel McKay, who disappeared decades ago, was believed to have been buried at the farm according to historical leads and recent information provided by Nizamodeen Hosein in Trinidad, the man convicted of her murder and kidnapping in 1969. Despite the detailed and expanded search efforts, which included the use of ground-penetrating radar and forensic archaeologists, no trace of McKay’s remains was found.
The search parameters were set after careful review of all available evidence, and extensive consultations with experts and the family. “We have searched all the areas identified as possible sites for Muriel’s remains, including all of the former manure heap, and far beyond,” stated Goodwin. The efforts followed an initial unsuccessful search conducted in spring 2022, which also found no evidence of McKay’s remains.
Questions regarding why Hosein was not brought to the UK to assist with the search were addressed by the police. They believe that his involvement would not have yielded beneficial information, a stance that remained unchanged even after reassessment during the recent search efforts.
The property owners expressed their disappointment at the unsuccessful outcome but acknowledged the professionalism and dedication of the police. They confirmed that no further searches would be requested on their property.
This latest search marks the end of the Metropolitan Police’s active investigation into Muriel McKay’s disappearance. The family has been informed that it would not be proportionate to carry out any further searches. The police and the community are left to hope that despite the unsuccessful search, the efforts made might provide some form of solace to McKay’s family.
