Mother of missing teen in Stornoway warns of ‘scam fundraiser’ as search continues

The mother of a missing Stornoway teenager is warning people of a “scam fundraiser” funding the search effort.

Aleksandr Benga was last seen at around 8.45am on Monday, November 18, near the water wheel on the grounds of Lewis Castle in Stornoway.

The 16-year-old is described by police as 6ft 2in tall and of slim build with short brown hair.

He was last seen wearing a beige jumper and black jeans, and police say he had a yellow beanie hat with him.

Specialist search officers from Aberdeen and Inverness have travelled to the island to assist with the ongoing extensive searches, and partner agencies are providing support.

His mother, Viktoria Benga, took to social media to reveal a scam fundraiser had been set up in the search for her son.

She wrote: “Not me or my family haven’t set anything at this present moment. Do not send money to anyone for this matter. Please be aware.”

Police Scotland 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.”

Those with information on Aleksandr’s whereabouts, contact Police Scotland via 101 as soon as possible, quoting incident 0803 of November 18, 2024.

She said: “Please be aware! There is no fundraising for Aleksandr.