Struggling to delete AI Search due to the “LockedSPLResourceFound” error? This issue arises from existing Shared Private Links blocking deletion. Learn how to manually remove these links in the Azure Portal and what to do if deletion gets stuck, ensuring a smooth AI Search removal. Unique :

Fixing the LockedSPLResourceFound Error in Azure AI Search
If you’ve tried deleting an AI Search resource in Azure and hit the “LockedSPLResourceFound” error, you’re not alone. This pesky issue stops you from removing AI Search because of lingering Shared Private Links. Thankfully, there’s a straightforward fix.
What’s Causing the LockedSPLResourceFound Error?
The error message reads:
LockedSPLResourceFound: Unable to verify management locks on Resource ‘$Resource_Path’. If you still want to delete the search service, manually delete the SPL resource first and try again.
This happens because Azure AI Search won’t let you delete the resource while Shared Private Links (SPL) are still active. These links act like locks, preventing accidental deletion.
How to Solve It: Delete Shared Private Links Manually
To fix this, head over to the Azure Portal and navigate to:
- Settings > Networking > Shared private access tab
Delete all Shared Private Links listed there. After that, wait at least 15 minutes to ensure the deletions fully process.
Once the SPLs are gone, retry deleting your AI Search resource. This usually clears the error.
When Shared Private Links Deletion Gets Stuck
Sometimes, Shared Private Links show as “deleting” for hours—sometimes over three hours. This delay can block your AI Search deletion indefinitely.
In these rare cases, Microsoft recommends opening a support ticket. Their team will step in to resolve the stuck SPL deletion.
“If you see your Shared Private Links are in a state of being deleted for a long time, please open a case to our Support team.” – SungGun Lee, Microsoft
Why This Matters for Azure Users
Understanding this lock mechanism helps avoid frustration when managing AI Search resources. It’s a small but critical step in Azure resource cleanup.
Plus, knowing when to escalate to support saves time and keeps your projects on track.
Summary
To recap:
- The LockedSPLResourceFound error blocks AI Search deletion due to active Shared Private Links.
- Manually delete these links in the Azure Portal under Networking settings.
- Wait 15 minutes for cleanup, then retry deleting AI Search.
- If deletion hangs, contact Microsoft Support for help.
Next time you face this error, you’ll know exactly how to fix it—no more guesswork!
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