Police are treating the disappearance of former teacher Komal Maharaj with the urgency and resources typically reserved for cases of kidnapping. According to senior police sources, despite Maharaj being classified as a missing person, the circumstances surrounding his disappearance are far from ordinary.
Maharaj, aged 40, was last seen leaving his residence in Felicity around 11:30 am in his blue Hyundai Ioniq en route to the Scotiabank ATM at Price Plaza, Chaguanas. An hour later, he contacted his wife to inform her that he was at the ATM and planned to meet someone briefly before returning home by 2 pm. However, he failed to make it back home, and attempts to reach him on his phone proved futile.
Concerned relatives searching for Maharaj discovered his vehicle untouched at the mall. The Hunters Search and Rescue Team, led by Vallence Rambharat, are collaborating with law enforcement and offering support to the family during this troubling time.
Since Maharaj’s disappearance, an outpouring of support has flooded social media, with thousands sharing posts to assist in locating him. The news has even shaken Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha (SDMS) Secretary General Vijay Maharaj, who expressed his deep connection to both families. Reflecting on the crime epidemic in the country, Vijay Maharaj noted the alarming trend of professionals migrating abroad as a result of safety concerns.
Meanwhile, friends, family, and colleagues continue to speak out in hopes of Maharaj’s safe return. University friend Ronald described Maharaj as a religious, Beloved father and friend. Maharaj, who has been married for ten years and is a father of two young girls, has been described as a family-oriented and gentle individual.
Chaguanas West MP Dinesh Rambally has called upon the public to provide any information, regardless of how insignificant it may seem, to aid in Maharaj’s safe return. Residents of Felicity and beyond are rallying together to support the family during this difficult period.
To further aid in Maharaj’s return, the 2005 to 2006 executive of UWI’s Hindu Society held a virtual prayer meeting via Zoom. Maharaj, who is of East Indian descent, stands at approximately five feet, eight inches tall with a slim build, fair complexion, short black hair, and clean-shaven appearance. He was last seen wearing jeans, a red t-shirt, a grey long-sleeved hoodie, and black and white sneakers.
Anyone with information on Maharaj’s whereabouts is urged to contact the police’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit at 623-6793 or their nearest police station. Alternatively, individuals can reach out to the Hunters Search and Rescue team at 477-2031 or 799-1453. Let’s all come together and help bring Komal Maharaj back home.
