Scottish businessman Campbell Scott fell victim to a notorious gang that preys on wealthy tourists and expatriates. Authorities suspect the criminals use dating apps to lure victims into deadly traps.
Disappearance and tragic discovery
Scott vanished in February 2025 after checking into a luxury hotel in Nairobi. His sudden disappearance triggered an intense search.
However, six days later, authorities found his body in Makongo Forest, Makueni County nearly 60 miles from where he was last seen.
Investigators quickly ruled out an accident, as evidence strongly pointed to foul play.
Consequently, they linked his murder to an organized crime syndicate notorious for targeting foreigners.
Gang’s deadly tactics
According to reports, this gang primarily operates through dating apps such as Tinder and Facebook.
Female accomplices lure victims by arranging romantic meetups. Once the targets arrive, the criminals ambush them, brutally torture them for financial details, and in some cases, murder them.
In Scott’s case, CCTV footage captured him leaving a bar in Westlands with an unidentified man. Authorities strongly believe this man played a key role in the crime.
Brutal murder and financial theft
Detectives traced Scott’s movements to Pipeline, where gang members allegedly held him hostage.
They subjected him to torture, forcing him to reveal his bank details. Soon after, the criminals drained Ksh 1.9 million (£12,000) from his accounts.
Authorities later found his body with severe injuries, including acid burns. These brutal wounds confirmed the horrific nature of his death.
Prime suspect and criminal history
Police have intensified their manhunt for three suspects, including Bernard, the alleged gang leader.
Bernard has a lengthy criminal record. In a previous incident, he orchestrated an attack on a Nairobi preacher, where criminals stripped and robbed the victim.
Moreover, he has been charged in absentia for violent crimes against an Indian and a Turkish national.
Ongoing investigations and public appeal
Authorities strongly suspect that this gang has been operating for years. Notably, in October 2020, Bernard and his cousins robbed an Israeli national in Nairobi. Despite multiple arrests, he continues to evade justice.
On March 7, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) released images of the three suspects, urging the public to help track them down.
Meanwhile, detectives are working tirelessly to dismantle the gang and prevent further tragedies.
