Scottish Businessman Campbell Scott Lured to His Death by Notorious Gang Targeting Wealthy Tourists via Dating Apps

Scottish businessman Campbell Scott fell victim to a notorious gang that preys on wealthy tourists and expatriates.

Authorities believe the criminals used dating apps to lure Scott into a deadly trap, culminating in his brutal murder and the theft of Ksh 1.9 million (£12,000) from his accounts.

Disappearance and Tragic Discovery

Scott vanished in February 2025 after checking into a luxury hotel in Nairobi.

His sudden disappearance prompted an intense search, but six days later, the search ended in tragedy. His body was discovered in Makongo Forest, Makueni County, nearly 60 miles from where he was last seen.

Investigators quickly ruled out an accident, as evidence pointed overwhelmingly to foul play.

Authorities linked Scott’s murder to an organized crime syndicate notorious for targeting foreigners.

The gang’s modus operandi involves using dating apps such as Tinder and Facebook to ensnare victims.

Female accomplices arrange romantic meetups, luring targets into ambushes where they are brutally tortured for financial information and, in some cases, murdered.

Gang’s Deadly Tactics

In Scott’s case, CCTV footage captured him leaving a bar in Westlands with an unidentified man, who investigators believe played a key role in the crime.

Detectives traced Scott’s movements to Pipeline, where gang members allegedly held him hostage.

They subjected him to horrific torture, including acid burns, to extract his bank details.

After draining his accounts, they left his body with severe injuries, a grim testament to the gang’s brutality.

Prime Suspect and Criminal History

Police have identified Bernard, a known gang leader, as the prime suspect.

Bernard has a lengthy criminal record, including orchestrating an attack on a Nairobi preacher in which the victim was stripped and robbed. He has also been charged in absentia for violent crimes against an Indian and a Turkish national.

Authorities suspect Bernard’s gang has been operating for years.

In October 2020, Bernard and his cousins robbed an Israeli national in Nairobi.

Despite multiple arrests, he has repeatedly evaded justice, raising concerns about the effectiveness of law enforcement in tackling organized crime.

Ongoing Investigations

On March 7, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) released images of three suspects, including Bernard, and appealed to the public for assistance in tracking them down. Detectives are working tirelessly to dismantle the gang and prevent further tragedies.

This case has highlighted the dangers faced by wealthy tourists and expatriates in certain regions, as well as the growing use of dating apps by criminals to exploit unsuspecting victims. As investigations continue, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.