Police probe 'offensive' tweet about tragic Mikaeel Kular as body removed from woods

Scottish police have said they are investigating an offensive comment made online relating to the disappearance of Mikaeel Kular.

The remark was made on Twitter by someone in the Greater Manchester area.

It was brought to Police Scotland’s attention by a resident in Edinburgh, where a hunt was launched for missing three-year-old Mikaeel on Thursday.

A police spokesman said: “Any reports of racist, offensive or abusive comments made online will be thoroughly investigated and those responsible will be brought to justice.

“If you commit an offence, we will investigate it and you will be prosecuted.”

Meanwhile, a body - believed to be that of Mikaeel Kular - has been removed from woodland behind a property which neighbours say is occupied by the sister of Mikaeel’s mother Rosdeep.

A private ambulance took the body away this afternoon.

Mikaeel's mother has reportedly been detained by police.

[comment] A tribute left near Mikaeel's home. Pictures: PA[/comment]

Officers searching for the Edinburgh youngster found a body in Kirkcaldy, Fife shortly before midnight.

Residents of Dunvegan Avenue, around 25 miles from Mikaeel’s home, spoke of their shock at seeing police activity on their street this morning.

Investigators have cordoned off a bungalow which neighbours say is occupied by the sister of Mikaeel’s mother Rosdeep. A wooded area to the rear and side of the property has also been sealed off.

Mother-of-five Ms Kular reported putting her son to bed at 9pm on Wednesday and said when she went to check on him at 7.15am his bed was empty.

His jacket and shoes were missing and police said he may have left of his own accord. Last night, almost 48 hours after Mikaeel went missing, they said they had "grave concerns" for his safety and that he may have been the victim of a crime.