Police have carried out new survey work near Inverness as part of ongoing efforts to locate the bodies of Renee and Andrew MacRae, nearly 50 years after their murder.

Specialist teams have been working at sites near Nairnside, east of Inverness, during the week beginning 23 March 2026.

The operation has involved military intelligence experts from the National Centre for Geospatial Intelligence, using drones and LiDAR technology to analyse the landscape in detail.

Renee MacRae, 36, and her three year old son Andrew were last seen on 12 November 1976 after leaving their home in Inverness.

Their car was later found burned out in a lay by near Dalmagarry, but their bodies have never been recovered despite decades of investigation.

Detective Superintendent Brian Geddes said:

“This case will never be considered resolved until we find Renee and Andrew.

“We owe it to the family and friends to make every effort to recover Renee and Andrew’s bodies to provide them with the dignity they deserve.

“The results of this scoping activity will be studied to assess whether further search activity is required.

“I want to thank our military colleagues who have assisted and provided their expertise to this survey, and also the landowners for their assistance with access through the week.

“Our work continues as we try to ensure the family get the answers they deserve.

“I would urge anyone who may be able to assist, no matter how small you may feel your information is, to come forward and speak to police.”

Minister for the Armed Forces Al Carns said:

“Our world class professionals have once again shown how the Armed Forces can bring real value to supporting their civilian partners at home in the UK.

“I want to congratulate our specialists from the National Centre for Geospatial Intelligence on a successful operation to support Police Scotland’s search for Renee and Andrew MacRae.

“This shows our whole of society approach in action, and we will continue to support Police Scotland in any way we can.”

William MacDowell was convicted of the murders at the High Court in Inverness in September 2022 and died in February 2023.

Despite that conviction, the case remains open as efforts continue to recover the remains and provide answers to the family.

Police have renewed their appeal for information, urging anyone who may be able to assist to come forward.