We’ve often heard of missing individuals and the pleas of family members for their return. However, it’s rare to hear of missing people getting spotted in public after their disappearance – but such occurrences may be more chilling.
AthenaLiya (雅典娜liya), better known as Liya, is a popular Chinese social media personality and former Miss World Macau finalist. She was very active on social media and had a large following due to her beauty. Last year, she suddenly went missing after visiting the Philippines to accompany a friend. She has not updated her social media since her visit, and her family has reportedly lost contact with her.
According to reports, Liya went to the Philippines after a friend had asked her to accompany them to the country following a breakup. However, just before the two left for the Philippines, the friend said they had to delay their flight and that Liya would have to fly alone. Once the influencer arrived in Southeast Asia, she shared two posts on XiaoHongShu before she suddenly stopped posting.
Liya’s disappearance rocked the internet and sparked many conspiracy theories. However, recently, some netizens shared a new lead in her case, drawing more concern for her safety. According to reports, Liya was spotted working in Cambodia for the renowned Jin Bei Casino. Many people suggested that Liya was kidnapped, forced to undergo plastic surgery to change her appearance and then was trafficked to work at the casino as a hostess.
There had long been allegations that Liya was kidnapped during her trip to the Philippines. There was also the incident where her family members paid off a ransom after receiving images of a woman with bruises on her face and body. The family reportedly paid 800,000 yuan (approximately RM495k) to help free the woman, believed to be Liya, but their attempt proved futile.
Authorities have yet to confirm the woman working in the casino is Liya. Whatever it may be, we hope Liya is safe and can reunite with her family.
Sources: Oriental Daily, Dim Sum Daily
