The Tragic Disappearance and Death of Campbell Scott in Kenya
The body of Campbell Scott, a 58-year-old British businessman, was discovered in Kenya just days after he mysteriously vanished while on a business trip to Nairobi. Scott, a senior director at the data analytics company Fico, was last seen on February 16, 2024, at the JW Marriott Hotel, where he was staying. His disappearance sparked an extensive search operation, and his body was later found dumped in a sack in the Makongo forest, approximately 60 miles southeast of Nairobi. The investigation into his death suggests that Scott was likely strangled, raising fears that he may have been kidnapped and murdered. Two individuals, including a taxi driver and a waiter, have been arrested for questioning in connection with his alleged kidnapping and murder.
Background: Campbell Scott’s Visit and Disappearance
Campbell Scott arrived in Kenya last weekend for a three-day business conference, where he was scheduled to meet with officials from the UK, US, and several African countries. He was accompanied by a colleague, who reported him missing on Monday evening when attempts to reach him via his mobile phone were unsuccessful. Scott was last seen on CCTV footage walking around Nairobi in a Scotland kit on February 15, the day before his disappearance. The following day, he was spotted leaving the JW Marriott Hotel with a man dressed in a white T-shirt and blue jeans. The two men then got into a car and drove away, according to detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
The Investigation into Campbell Scott’s Death
The discovery of Scott’s body on February 22 by animal herders in the Makongo forest marked a tragic end to an extensive search operation involving hotel security, local police, and DCI detectives. Authorities fear that Scott may have been kidnapped, and an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding his disappearance and death. Police have reportedly taken statements from at least six individuals at the JW Marriott Hotel, where Scott was staying. Two suspects—a taxi driver and a waiter—have been detained for questioning. The UK High Commission in Nairobi is working closely with Kenyan authorities to assist in the investigation, while the Foreign Office in London is providing support to Scott’s family.
Fico Pays Tribute to Campbell Scott
Campbell Scott’s employer, Fico, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the slain businessman. In a statement released on Monday night, Fico confirmed Scott’s death and expressed deep devastation over the tragic news. The company described Scott as a leader in its international Scores business, noting that he had been instrumental in expanding Fico’s operations into new markets and strengthening existing partnerships since joining the company in 2014. Fico also remembered Scott for his humor, kindness, and dedication to his work. The company has refrained from sharing further details about the incident, citing the ongoing police investigation.
Timeline of Campbell Scott’s Disappearance
Campbell Scott’s disappearance occurred during a business trip to Nairobi, where he was scheduled to attend a three-day conference. He was last seen on February 16 at around 11:15 a.m. at the JW Marriott Hotel. His colleague reported him missing on Monday evening after being unable to contact him via his mobile phone. By 7 p.m., the hotel had informed the police, sparking a search operation involving hotel security, management, and officers from the Parklands police station. Over the next few days, DCI detectives scoured local bars and hotels in the Westlands district for information related to Scott’s disappearance. Tragically, his body was found less than a week after he went missing.
Family and International Support in the Wake of the Tragedy
The UK High Commission in Nairobi is working closely with local authorities to assist in the investigation into Campbell Scott’s death, while the Foreign Office in London is providing support to his family during this difficult time. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through Scott’s community and colleagues, many of whom have remembered him fondly for his professionalism, humor, and kindness. As the investigation continues, questions remain about the exact circumstances of Scott’s disappearance and death, and authorities are working tirelessly to uncover the truth. The case has also highlighted the risks faced by international business travelers and the importance of ensuring their safety while abroad.