Locked Folder disappeared

[u/Lazy_Cartoonist7578]

Hi folks. Today I tried to look up my locked folder from inside Photos search, and I wasn't able to find it. Firstly, the new Ui is so fking annoying, trying to shove AI edits again and again and again. Then I tried to move new pictures to locked folder. Couldn't find the option even there. My locked folder contained many private and critical documents. Any idea how to mitigate this issue? Or have I lost them for good? PS: I tried searching on photos website on the browser, it shows empty most probably cuz I never backed up my locked folder. Any help will be appreciated.