Manhunt after boy, eight, sexually assaulted on family camping trip in Highlands

A manhunt has been launched after a boy was sexually assaulted during a family camping trip in the Highlands.

The eight-year-old boy was within his tent at Loch Ness Bay Campsite in Drumnadrochit when he was approached by a man between 12.20am and 1am on Thursday, July 31.

The man sexually assaulted the boy while his family were in an adjacent tent before leaving the area.

The suspect is described as a white man, aged between 35 to 50 years old, around 5ft 10ins tall and bald.

An extensive investigation is ongoing, and the family is being supported by specialist officers.

The public have been told to expect a large police presence in the area including plain-clothed and uniformed officers.

Detective inspector Christopher Macleod said: “This sexual assault was carried out on a young boy, who was camping overnight with his family, and it is vital we trace the man responsible as soon as possible.

“A dedicated team of officers are carrying out investigations, including carrying out enquiries in the local area and reviewing all available CCTV footage.

“I would urge anyone who was staying in the Drumnadrochit area to come forward, as any piece of information, no matter how small or insignificant you think it is, could prove vital.

“Please think back – do you recognise anyone who matches the description of the suspect? Or did you see anyone behaving in a strange manner, giving cause for concern, or loitering in the area?

“I am also keen to hear from anyone who was driving in the area around the time of the incident and may have dashcam footage, or who has seen something suspicious.

“We understand the significant impact this will have on the local community and I would like to thank everyone for their help so far.

“This incident will be very upsetting and worrying for the people living in this community and would ask anyone with any concerns to speak to us.

“Please be reassured this is a significant investigation and there will be a large police presence in the area.

“This includes uniformed and plain-clothed officers from the local division. Anyone with any concerns, or information, can approach these officers.”

If you have any information, please contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0167 of July 31, 2025.

Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.