Man charged in connection with death of missing Edinburgh woman

Police have charged a 39-year-old man in connection with the death of an Edinburgh woman who went missing 11 months ago.

Khasha Smith, a mother of three, from Calder, Edinburgh, was last seen on a FaceTime call with a friend on 10 October 2023, and was reported missing in January.

Police have yet to find Smith, 35, but they believe she is dead.

The man charged in connection with her disappearance will appear at Edinburgh sheriff court on Monday.

Smith’s daughter, Calley Smith, and her mother, Nicola Neil, made a plea for information in March.

Neil said Smith was a “brilliant mum” who was “loved by all our very close family”. Calley Smith, 18, added: “We miss her so much. We want nothing more than my mum to walk through the door and to be able to give her a massive hug. It feels like I’m living the worst dream I could ever imagine.”

Officers searched Smith’s flat and a nearby section of the Union Canal, an area of woodland and metal containers. On Wednesday, police carried out a new search near her home, but have yet to find her.

DCI Bob Williamson, of Police Scotland’s major investigation team, continued to appeal for information. He said: “Our thoughts remain with Khasha’s family at this extremely difficult time, and they continue to be supported by specialist officers.

“They are understandably devastated, and it is vital that we get answers for them.

“Extensive inquiries remain ongoing to trace Khasha, and I would again encourage anyone with any information regarding her disappearance to contact the police as a matter of urgency.

“Any piece of information, no matter how small or insignificant you think it is, could prove vital, so please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland on 101. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.