Australian boy Markyia Major disappears without a trace in Far North Queensland – as police investigation reveals ‘red flags’
Police are very concerned about the fate of a 17-year-old boy who went missing more than a month ago in Far North Queensland.
Markyia Major, 17, from the coastal town in the Aboriginal Shire of Yarrabah, near Cairns, was last seen at her home in Westcourt on August 15.
The 17-year-old’s mother reported him missing on September 2 after her son failed to contact any family members or access his bank account.
Markyia’s mother told police that her son had “gone out for a few days” in the past and that she was waiting to hear from him.
Acting Detective Inspector Chetham said Markyia’s mother “conducted her own investigation” before contacting police, who then launched an investigation into her disappearance.
Markyia Major, 17, was last at her home in the Cairns suburb of Westcourt on August 15. His mother said the teen had not had contact with his family or accessed his bank account since his disappearance.
Acting Detective Inspector Chetham (pictured) said Markyia’s disappearance was “unusual” and the lack of contact with family and friends raised “red flags” for investigators.
“It’s really the lack of contact with family and friends that is a red flag for us,” Acting Detective Inspector Chetham said. The ABC.
“Her mother tells us she would definitely have expected contact much earlier. Markyia has been out for a few days in a row in the past, but nothing like this, so it’s very unusual.
Inspector Chetham said Markyia’s behavior was “completely normal” before she disappeared.
He said the teen had not talked about leaving the area and had no confrontations with family or friends.
Police said they were “keeping an open mind” after being asked if they suspected “foul play” in his disappearance.
Inspector Chetham said police were questioning Markyia’s large group of friends and associates.
“No one at this stage has been able to come forward and identify what his movements were,” Mr Chetham said.
“We just don’t know… we’re investigating this as a missing person’s report.”
Markyia is described as 150cm tall, with a slim build and shoulder-length curly black hair.
Anyone with information on Markyia’s whereabouts or who may have seen the teenager is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
