Mikaeel Kular: Alex Salmond pays tribute

Police believe child's body discovered in Fife to be Mikaeel

Assistant Chief Constable Malcolm Graham said the body of a young child was recovered in Fife just before midnight. Forensics were later on site (GETTY)

Alex Salmond has praised the “dedication” of police officers and Edinburgh residents who joined the search for Mikaeel Kular that ended in tragedy today.

Police “strongly believe” a child’s body found in Kirkcaldy, Fife, shortly before midnight is his, although formal identification has not taken place.

Mr Salmond, the First Minister of Scotland, said: “This is a tragic development in this harrowing story and the news that we have all been dreading.

“The hearts of everyone across Scotland and beyond have been touched by the events of recent days.

"We should at this difficult time remember the work of the officers of Police Scotland who have responded to this difficult task and investigation and shown such professionalism and dedication.

“Above all the efforts and solidarity of the local community in Edinburgh should be applauded. In the most tragic of circumstances they volunteered to make their very best efforts to help this young child.”

Edinburgh MSP Colin Keir said the community was united in grief.

“It has been a huge bringing together of the community. In my time as a politician I have never experienced such a thing. This is completely unprecedented and unfortunately it has ended in such a tragedy,” he told Sky News.

Kenny MacAskill, Scotland’s Justice Secretary, urged anyone with information relevant to the investigation to contact police.

Video: Search for Mikaeel Kular