UK police appeal for information on missing Turkish academic

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - UK authorities are increasingly concerned for the welfare of Orhan Ekren, a 48-year-old man last seen in Camden over two weeks ago.

Ekren, who resides in Milton Keynes and is of Turkish heritage, was spotted near Camden Market, close to Camden Lock on Tuesday, Nov. 26.

The Metropolitan Police have intensified their search efforts after Ekren’s dark backpack was found near the canal the day after his disappearance.

He was last seen wearing dark clothing, and there have been no confirmed sightings of him since.

Ekren is a respected academic who previously served as a visiting professor at Cranfield University.

Banu Ekren, the wife of Orhan, told Anadolu that they have been going through difficult days as they have not heard from her husband.

Ekren explained that her husband worked at a company in the energy sector after leaving the university and said:

"My husband went missing on the evening of Nov. 26 in the Camden Lock area of London. That was the last place he was seen. His bag was found near the canal. The police have been conducting search operations for two weeks, but we have not received any news yet. Orhan is very devoted to his family and is a successful businessman."

"We are extremely worried about him. If anyone has heard from him, seen him, or has any information, please contact us or the nearest police station. Your support is very important to us."

Ekren stated that they do not suspect any particular situation or person and expressed hope to receive good news about her husband as soon as possible.

Police are particularly appealing to individuals who live in the Camden area, were present in the vicinity at the time, or have barges moored along the canal.

Any witnesses or those with relevant details are asked to contact authorities immediately.