Mother warns of scam fundraisers amid search for missing teenager

Viktoria Benga cautions against fraudulent fundraising efforts as search continues.

The search for missing 16-year-old Aleksandr Benga from Stornoway has taken a troubling turn as his mother, Viktoria Benga, issues a warning about fraudulent fundraising efforts exploiting their distressing situation. Aleksandr was last seen on November 18, near the water wheel at Lews Castle, and the community has rallied to support the ongoing search.

Ongoing search efforts and community support

Since his disappearance, the search for Aleksandr has involved extensive resources, including specialist police teams from across Scotland, the coastguard, mountain rescue volunteers, and lifeboat services. The local community has come together to assist in the search, demonstrating solidarity and concern for the missing teenager.

However, amidst this collective effort, Viktoria has expressed her distress over the emergence of scam fundraisers that falsely claim to support the search for her son.

Viktoria Benga’s plea for caution

Viktoria Benga has been vocal in her plea for information regarding her son’s whereabouts, describing him as her “darling son.” In her recent statements, she emphasized, “There is no fundraising for Aleksandr.

Not me or my family have set anything at this present moment. Do not send money to anyone for this matter.” Her warning serves as a crucial reminder for the public to remain vigilant against potential scams that could take advantage of vulnerable families during crises.

Details about Aleksandr and police efforts

Described as 6 feet 2 inches tall with a slim build and short brown hair, Aleksandr was last seen wearing a beige jumper, black jeans, and carrying a yellow beanie hat. As temperatures on the Isle of Lewis have plummeted to as low as -9°C, police have intensified their search efforts. Inspector Euan Cowan has urged the public to assist by checking gardens, outbuildings, and sheds for any signs of Aleksandr, as well as reviewing private CCTV or dashcam footage from the day he went missing.

“Anyone with information, no matter how small, should contact Police Scotland via 101 as soon as possible, quoting incident 0803 of November 18,” Inspector Cowan stated. The urgency of the situation is compounded by the harsh weather conditions, making the search for Aleksandr even more critical.