Islanders urged to be wary of scam online fundraiser for missing Stornoway teenager

1 December 2024

Police Scotland is warning people about what appears to be a fake online fundraising appeal for missing Lewis youth, Aleksandr Benga.

The 16-year-old was last seen two weeks ago near to the waterwheel in the Lews Castle grounds.

A massive search has not uncovered any trace of him.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: We have been made aware of a potential fraudulent fundraising page circulating on social media regarding the search for Aleksandr Benga, who was reported missing from Stornoway on Monday, 18 November, 2024.

“Aleksandr’s family have not set up any fundraising and we would urge the public to be vigilant with such sites and report anything of concern to us.”

His mother, Viktoria Benga, also urged people to be cautious.

She said: “Not me or my family [have] set anything at this present moment. Do not send money to anyone for this matter.