Police have seized more than 1,500 hours of footage as they investigate the Loch Ness boy assault that shocked the Scottish Highlands. An unidentified man sexually assaulted an eight-year-old boy in his tent at the Loch Ness Bay campsite in Drumnadrochit during the early hours of Thursday, July 31.
Investigators said the attacker entered the child’s tent between 12:20am and 1:00am, while the boy’s family slept in a nearby tent. The father, disturbed by unusual sounds, stepped outside and saw a man walking away from his son’s tent. Despite his immediate alert, the suspect vanished from the area before police could respond.
Officers from Police Scotland have since launched an intensive manhunt. They have visited nearly 100 properties and gathered an extensive volume of public and private CCTV footage. Detective Superintendent Calum Smith confirmed that specialist units from across Scotland are supporting the investigation. He emphasized their full commitment to identifying the man responsible for the Loch Ness boy assault.
“We are using every available resource to track the suspect,” said DS Smith. “More than 1,500 hours of footage are now under review. We urge anyone with even the smallest bit of information to step forward.”
The suspect is described as a bald white man, aged between 35 and 50, standing about 5 feet 10 inches tall. Although the community has responded positively so far, police believe additional tips could prove vital. DS Smith asked locals and visitors to reflect on their observations from that night.
“Did you notice someone who matches this description?” he asked. “Even minor details could help. Please call us if you saw anything.”
Specialist officers continue to support the young victim and his family, who remain deeply affected by the assault. Superintendent Judy Hill thanked the public and local businesses for their cooperation. She acknowledged the emotional toll the incident has taken on the small, close-knit community.
“This case has disturbed many people in the Highlands,” she said. “We understand the fear and concern. Please approach officers with questions or share tips by calling 101.”
The Loch Ness boy assault remains one of the most urgent child protection cases in the region. Police have promised transparency and persistent effort as they work to bring justice to the family and restore public confidence.
