The family of Allen McKenna, a 47-year-old businessman who died while on holiday in Morocco, is seeking answers concerning the circumstances around his death and burial. Mr McKenna was on a trip to Casablanca with his 25-year-old girlfriend, Majda Mjaoual, when he collapsed in February.
The ordeal began on February 22, when Mr McKenna’s father, Alan Moorhead, who resides in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, received a video call from Ms Mjaoual. During the call, Mr Moorhead reported seeing his son’s body in the background. Ms Mjaoual stated that Mr McKenna had suffered a fatal heart attack. However, his family has yet to receive a death certificate or any coroners' report, leaving them in a state of confusion and distress.
The situation escalated further as Ms Mjaoual reportedly buried Mr McKenna two days after his death and then returned to the UK to manage his affairs. As of now, she has not disclosed the location of his burial, prompting significant concern from Mr Moorhead and his family. Mr Moorhead expressed his anguish, stating, “It’s soul destroying. I don’t know where to move, I don’t know what to do,” and emphasised the need for closure, saying, “He deserves better. He deserves to come back here to South Australia and then all the family can have closure.”
Mr McKenna, who had studied at the University of South Australia, was actively managing three companies, including a brewery, at the time of his death. His family is now focused on bringing him back to Australia, where he grew up.
Communication has reportedly stalled, as Mr Moorhead mentioned that Ms Mjaoual has not responded to any messages, calls, or texts, further complicating the family's efforts to gain clarity on his conditions of death. “I just want my lad back,” Mr Moorhead added, voicing the deep personal impact of the situation.
Authorities are now involved in the case. The Foreign Office has confirmed that they are assisting Mr McKenna's family following his death in Morocco and are in contact with local authorities regarding the matter. Additionally, North Yorkshire Police, Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Interpol are noted to be investigating the circumstances surrounding Mr McKenna’s death and burial.
Source: Noah Wire Services