Bouchra Marbouhi recounts the last time she saw her daughter on the morning of September 26, preparing her for school and mentioning a sleepover with her father later. The heartbreaking moment when her daughter promised her a birthday card that she never received still lingers in Marbouhi’s memory. Despite a court order intended to prevent it, Marbouhi has been separated from her five-year-old daughter for over a month, as her father, Ahmed ElGammal, took the child out of the country. To safeguard the child’s privacy, CBC News refrains from disclosing her name.
Expressing her deep longing for her daughter, Marbouhi holds onto her daughter’s stuffed toy, reminiscing about her daughter’s scent, voice, and playful antics. An arrest warrant has been issued for ElGammal by the Newfoundland and Labrador police for parental abduction in violation of a custody order. Marbouhi is eager to ensure her daughter’s well-being and reunite with her young child.
ElGammal’s actions were unveiled through text messages where he informed Marbouhi of taking their daughter out of the country. Initially dismissing it as a threat, Marbouhi promptly reported the incident to the police upon realization. The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary confirmed receiving reports of the child’s removal by a known person on the evening of September 27, leading to an ongoing investigation to locate and ensure the child’s safety.
Marbouhi’s efforts to protect her daughter included obtaining a court order to prevent her removal from the province, suspecting ElGammal’s intentions to take her to Egypt. Despite seeking refuge at Iris Kirby House, discrepancies arose between the parents regarding the child’s residence. ElGammal’s sudden departure with their daughter, possibly facilitated by a new passport, has left Marbouhi questioning the efficacy of legal measures in safeguarding her child.
Amidst immigration challenges and denied permits, Marbouhi’s distress deepens as she strives to regain custody of her daughter. Despite requests for well-being checks and coordination with law enforcement agencies, uncertainties loom over the child’s safety. With Halloween events canceled at the shelter where they resided, Marbouhi’s longing for her daughter’s return intensifies, echoing the sentiments of a mother yearning for her child’s presence.
The evolving situation underscores the complexities faced by Marbouhi in navigating legal, emotional, and immigration barriers to reunite with her daughter, whose absence weighs heavily on her heart.