In a heartbreaking blow after 35 years, the mother of missing toddler Ben Needham has been told that UK police will no longer actively investigate her son’s mysterious disappearance.

Kerry Needham, who has spent decades fighting for answers, was left stunned and devastated by the news. Ben, just 21 months old, vanished on the Greek island of Kos in July 1991 while the family was on holiday. Despite extensive searches, multiple excavations, and countless appeals, he has never been found.

Kerry, who has never given up hope of one day finding her son alive or discovering the truth, is said to be “shocked” and “crushed” by the police decision. South Yorkshire Police, who have led the British side of the investigation, reportedly informed the family that the case is now considered inactive unless significant new evidence emerges.Ben’s disappearance remains one of Britain’s longest-running and most emotional missing persons cases. Kerry has repeatedly rejected the theory that Ben was accidentally killed in a digger accident, insisting her son was abducted and demanding fresh leads be properly investigated.

The family’s pain continues as they face the possibility that, after more than three decades, official efforts may be winding down.

This devastating update has reignited calls from supporters for Greek and British authorities to do more to solve the enduring mystery.