Police have launched a manhunt after the sexual assault of an eight-year-old boy at a campsite in Drumnadrochit, near Loch Ness. The youngster was in a tent at the Loch Ness Bay campsite when the incident took place between 12.20am and 1am on Thursday. His family was in a tent next to him.
Detectives said a man approached the boy’s tent, carried out the sexual assault, and left the area. They are seeking a bald man aged between 35 and 50, who is about 5ft 10in tall. 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 inquiries 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.”
He asked anyone who saw someone loitering in the area to get in touch, adding: “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 information has been asked to call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0167 of July 31. A press conference will be held at 2pm on Friday.