Khasha Smith, Missing for Six Months, May Have Come to Harm, Police Suggest
Police have raised concerns that Khasha Smith, a 35-year-old mother of three who has been missing for over six months, “may have come to harm”. Smith, from Calder in Edinburgh, was last seen on October 10, 2023, during a Facetime call with a friend. Her family, alarmed by her sudden disappearance and lack of contact, reported her missing on January 5, 2024.
Khasha Smith’s mother, Nicola Neil, and her daughter, 18-year-old Calley Smith, have issued emotional appeals for information, describing the pain of not knowing her whereabouts. Nicola expressed how unbearable the uncertainty has been, saying, “It’s hard to find the words to explain the ‘not knowing’ where she is and if anything has happened to her.”
Police Scotland has launched an extensive search, including the use of dog units, specialist teams, and underwater search resources, focusing on areas Ms Smith is known to frequent, such as Gorgie, Broomhouse, and Wester Hailes. Despite these efforts, there have been no significant developments.
The family is particularly distraught by the fact that Khasha missed her daughter’s 18th birthday, something her daughter describes as “unthinkable.” Calley said, “My mum would never miss my birthday. It feels like I’m living the worst dream I could ever imagine.”
Detective Chief Inspector Bob Williamson, who is leading the investigation, emphasised that while police remain hopeful Khasha will be found safe, they must consider the possibility of her coming to harm. “We have to consider all possibilities. Our focus is to build a picture of Khasha’s life in the months leading up to her disappearance.”
The police have asked anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward. A public portal has been set up for people to send any information directly to authorities. “It is absolutely vital that we find Khasha,” said DCI Williamson.
Her family is pleading for answers, with Nicola urging, “Please help us bring Khasha home. This waiting is unbearable. I miss her so much.”
