Fresh police appeal over disappearance of teenager in Stornoway

One Year On, Police Renew Appeal Over Missing Stornoway Teen Aleksandr Benga

Tuesday 18 November 2025

Police Scotland has issued a renewed appeal for information exactly one year after the disappearance of Stornoway teenager Aleksandr Benga.

Aleksandr, who would now be 17, was last seen on 18 November 2024 at around 8.45am. CCTV footage captured him near the water wheel in the grounds of Lews Castle in Stornoway. There have been no confirmed sightings since.

Extensive searches were launched in the days and weeks that followed. Specialist search advisors, police dogs, mountain rescue teams, the coastguard, and numerous local volunteers joined efforts to locate the teenager. Despite the large-scale operation, Aleksandr remains missing.

Inspector Euan Cowan acknowledged the ongoing trauma faced by the teen’s loved ones.
“It has now been a year since Aleksandr was last seen and we recognise how difficult this continues to be for his family and friends,” he said.
“Despite extensive searches and enquiries involving specialist teams and partner agencies, Aleksandr remains missing. We continue to review all available information and will act on any new details which come to light.”

Aleksandr is described as 6ft 2in tall, slim, with brown hair. When last seen he was wearing a beige jumper, black jeans, and carrying a yellow beanie hat. He was also wearing a red jacket, which was later recovered on Seaforth Road during early search efforts.

Inspector Cowan urged anyone who has not yet come forward to contact police.
“No detail is too minor and may assist with our enquiries,” he said. “Aleksandr’s family have expressed their gratitude to everyone who has offered help and support over the past year and have requested their privacy be respected.”

Police continue to ask the public to provide any information that may help trace the missing teenager.