The 21-month-old baby disappeared on the Greek island of Kos
www.walesonline.co.uk
Mum of Ben Needham 'in tears' as UK police will no longer investigate tot's disappearance
The mother of Ben Needham broke down in tears as she revealed South Yorkshire Police will no longer investigate her son's disappearance. Kerry Needham, 51, was “heartbroken and sobbing” after she was told the major crimes unit at would not be responsible for any investigations into the
child's disappearance.
According to
The Mirror, authorities said it is instead the responsibility of the
Greek police to undertake any future inquiries. The reason given was a lack of 'time' and 'resources'.
“This is devastating news. The case will now fall solely to the Greek authorities. If this happens, I feel like I may as well give up the search for Ben because the Greek police have only ever wanted this case to go away,” the frustrated mum told The Mirror, breaking down in tears.
The news was broken to Kerry during a video call by her family liaison officer, she explained.
South Yorkshire Police told The Mirror: "We remain ready to support Greek authorities should any new evidence come to light, and we remain committed to supporting Kerry. However, after 35 years, we must ensure all of the appropriate routes are in place and remain fit for purpose."
But Kerry told us: "For nearly 35 years, we have fought every single day to keep Ben's case alive, to search for answers, and to make sure he is never forgotten. We believe there are still avenues to explore. This feels like a devastating step backwards."
Family still hope they will find answers
www.thestar.co.uk
Family promise to never give up search for missing Sheffield boy Ben Needham after 35 year investigation
For 35 years a Sheffield mum has been desperately searching for answers about what happened to her missing child - and she has vowed to never give up fighting to discover the truth.
Over the course of the subsequent three decades, the young boy’s family has been following every possible lead in a desperate search to discover what truly happened during that fateful trip to Greece.
A number of theories were posited over the years, however the reality remains shrouded in mystery.
“We believed there were still avenues to explore, witnesses to revisit, and opportunities for British and Greek authorities to continue working together.
“To now be told that active involvement from the Major Crime Unit is ending feels like a devastating step backwards.”
She added: “No parent should ever have to stop searching for their child, and I never will.
“Thank you to everyone who continues to support our family and keep hope alive for Ben Needham.”