Police have renewed their appeal for information about missing teenager Aleksandr Benga almost two years after he was last seen in Stornoway.

Aleksandr was 18 when CCTV captured him near the water wheel in the grounds of Lews Castle at around 8.45am on Monday 18 November 2024, with officers continuing to review information about his disappearance.

Police Scotland has also acknowledged recent speculation surrounding what may have happened to Aleksandr and is urging people with information to contact officers rather than speculate online.

Chief Inspector Ross McCartney said:

“I would like to offer reassurance that all available lines of enquiry have been checked and any new, relevant information is assessed.

“I would ask people to avoid speculating online and instead please contact us.”

Extensive searches were carried out after Aleksandr was reported missing, involving both local officers and specialist resources.

Specialist search advisers, police dogs and the Mountain Rescue Team were involved alongside HM Coastguard and many volunteers from the local community.

Despite those efforts, Aleksandr remains missing and officers are now asking anyone who has not previously spoken to police, or who may have information which could help, to come forward.

At the time of his disappearance, Aleksandr was described as around 6ft 2in tall, with a slim build and short brown hair.

Inspector Neil Taylor said:

“We are reappealing to anyone who is yet to speak to police or may have any information that could assist our enquiries to please come forward.

“This remains extremely upsetting for Aleksandr’s family and friends.

“His family has expressed their gratitude to everyone who has offered help and support and have requested their privacy be respected.”

Police say all available information will continue to be reviewed and any new information which emerges will be acted upon.

Inspector Taylor added:

“We will continue to review all available information and act on any new information which comes to light.

“If someone has any information, no matter how small it may seem, please contact us.”

Anyone who believes they may know something which could assist the investigation is being urged not to dismiss information because it appears insignificant.

Information can be passed to Police Scotland by calling 101 and quoting incident number 0803 of 18 November 2024.