By Charlotte McCathie, Press Association
Detectives continue to be "extremely concerned" for the welfare of Lynn Ahmed, 34, who was last seen at her home in Salford, Greater Manchester, shortly before 10.50pm yesterday.
Her daughter was found dead at a house in Cheetham Hill, Greater Manchester, last Saturday.
A post-mortem examination concluded she had been strangled and stabbed.
Tia's uncle, John Maden, 37, appeared at Manchester Crown Court yesterday, charged with her murder, and was remanded in custody.
A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said: "She (Ms Ahmed) has taken some of Tia's belongings with her and officers have searched the area around her house as well as locations associated with Tia.
"The force helicopter and trained dogs have also been utilised in the search so far".
Detective Chief Inspector Bill McGreavy, of Salford CID, said: "I cannot even begin to comprehend what Lynn has gone through since the tragic death of her young daughter less than a week ago.
"GMP and partner agencies have been offering constant support to Lynn and other members of the family since Tia's murder and we are doing all we can to find her.
"We have conducted a thorough search since Lynn was reported missing and will not stop until she is found.
"Clearly her friends and family are worried about her at what is already a deeply emotional time.
"I would urge anyone who knows where Lynn is to call police as soon as possible.
"I would also urge Lynn herself to make contact with either the police, a friend or family member to let us know that you are well".
Ms Ahmed, who lives in Kimberley Street, Higher Broughton, is described as being mixed race, about 5ft 7in and of medium build with long black hair.
When last seen she was wearing a black tracksuit with a grey T-shirt. She is also believed to be carrying a pink bag.
Police said she was spotted by a friend a short time before 10.50pm yesterday but when the friend returned it was discovered she was missing. Ms Ahmed is also thought to be carrying money.
Tia's parents are understood to be separated, and the victim had three younger brothers and sisters.
The family were too upset to comment at the time of the schoolgirl's death.
More than 5,500 people have joined a group called RIP Tia Rigg on the social networking site Facebook.
Anyone with any information on Ms Ahmed's disappearance should call police on 0161 872 5050.
The Independent
