Woman arrested and charged in connection with death of Mikaeel Kular

Following the discovery of the body of Mikaeel Kular last night a 33 year-old woman has been arrested and charged in connection with the death of the three year-old.

A major police enquiry was launched to trace Mikaeel after he was reported missing from his home in Ferry Gait Crescent on Thursday 16 January 2014.

And over 200 members of the public joined a number of external agencies to assist the police with their search activity in the Drylaw area of Edinburgh yesterday.

The woman is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday.

Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Malcolm Graham said: “During the course of today (Saturday, January 18) the investigation into the disappearance of Mikaeel Kular has continued at pace, centring on a number of locations in Edinburgh and Fife.

“Following formal identification, I can now confirm that a 33 year woman who was detained late on Friday evening has been arrested and charged in connection with the death of Mikaeel.

“The woman is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday.

” I would like to again recognise the overwhelming public assistance that Police Scotland have received during the course of this very complex investigation. This includes his family and friends, with whom our thoughts remain.

“Over 200 civilian volunteers joined the search for Mikaeel within the Pennywell, Muirhouse and Silverknowes areas of Edinburgh during adverse weather conditions and cold temperatures.

“In addition, our dedicated number received in excess of 500 calls, with people wishing to provide information to help establish Mikaeel’s whereabouts.

“I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to you all for your vital support.

“My thanks also go to the various external search agencies who provided essential resources, equipment and personnel during this enquiry. Police Scotland is immensely grateful for your contribution.

“Enquiries continue, led by the Major Investigation Team of Police Scotland, supported by a range of local and national specialist assets from across the country. I ask that anybody who has any information that they feel would assist the investigation contacts the police.

“I am sure you will all appreciate we will no longer be able to answer questions relating to this matter.”