Full Breakdown
Search Efforts Intensify for Missing Seven-Year-Old Inaayah Makda in Morocco
2/1/2026, 9:52:33 PM
Incident Overview
Inaayah Makda, a seven-year-old girl from Blackburn, Lancashire, went missing on January 28, 2023, after being swept out to sea while on holiday with her parents, Zubair and Tasneem Makda, in Casablanca, Morocco. The family was sitting on rocks along the beach when a large wave struck, separating them and causing Inaayah to disappear from view. Her parents, who were also knocked into the water, spent hours searching for her without success.
Search and Rescue Operations
Following the incident, the Makda family has engaged a private search operator, including aerial support, to assist in the ongoing search efforts. Underwater teams have been deployed, and a search area spanning approximately five nautical miles from Ain Diab to north Casablanca has been established. The Moroccan authorities are coordinating with local volunteers and charities to conduct land searches along the coastline. However, challenges such as adverse weather conditions and rough seas have complicated the search operations.
Community Response and Fundraising Efforts
The Blackburn community has rallied around the Makda family, with a GoFundMe campaign launched to support the search efforts. The fundraiser has raised over £50,000 to cover costs associated with private search operations and essential family expenses. Community members, including the head teacher of Roe Lee Park Primary School, have expressed their shock and sadness, emphasizing the impact of the situation on the family and local community.
Criticism of Local Authorities
Family members have voiced frustration regarding the perceived lack of support from Moroccan authorities. They reported receiving minimal assistance and claimed that local police advised them to wait for Inaayah's body to wash ashore due to the dangerous conditions. This has led to public outcry and calls for better support for the family during this distressing time.
Official Statements
Blackburn MP Adnan Hussain has been actively involved, communicating with the family and raising the issue with UK authorities, including the Foreign Office. He stated, "I am urgently raising this matter with the UK authorities to ensure every possible step is being taken to support the search efforts." The Foreign Office has confirmed that it is providing assistance to the family and is in contact with local authorities in Morocco.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We were just on the rocks… that were sort of spread apart. It’s sort of like half a metre-high type of rocks and that’s when the tide just suddenly just swept everyone out.” — Zubair Makda, Father
- “The support we have got from the local authorities in Morocco can only be described as inhumane.” — Family Member
- “He said: "This is an utterly heartbreaking and deeply distressing situation.” — Adnan Hussain, MP
Conclusion
As the search for Inaayah Makda continues, her family remains hopeful for her safe return. The community's support and ongoing search efforts highlight the collective concern for the young girl and her family during this challenging time.
