Body of Missing Scotsman Greg Monks Found in Portugal After Days-Long Search

Albufeira, Portugal – Tragic news has emerged in the case of Greg Monks, a 38-year-old Scotsman who went missing while on a stag do in Portugal. Authorities have confirmed that a body has been found during the search for Monks, who vanished in the early hours of Tuesday, May 28.

Greg had been staying in Albufeira with friends for a five-day trip. On the first night, he told his group he was heading back to their accommodation — but he never made it. After several days of intense searching, a body was discovered on June 4 in a ravine in Cerro da Aguia, just west of Albufeira and near the area where Greg was last seen.

Firefighters recovered the body from a steep wasteland and transferred it for a formal autopsy at a forensic medical institute.

Family’s Agonising Wait Ends in Grief

Greg’s disappearance had sparked a massive effort. His parents, sisters Jillian and Carlyn, and girlfriend Nicole Ashleigh Kelso had flown to Portugal to support the search. A GoFundMe campaign set up by family friends raised over £24,000 to assist with the search and travel costs.

His sister Jillian spoke to media just a day before the tragic find. “He deserves to be found… he’s a big part of our family. It’s unimaginable,” she said tearfully. Describing Greg as a “quiet guy” and “really hard worker,” she noted his distinct Thor-style Viking tattoo on his upper right arm, which they hoped would help identify him.

Police Statement Confirms Tragic Discovery

A spokesperson from Portugal’s Policia Judiciaria (PJ) confirmed that the body found matches the description of the missing British tourist. “The 38-year-old UK citizen’s disappearance was reported at 8pm on May 28. After tracking his last known movements, the body was found in a steep wasteland,” the PJ said.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) also issued a statement, confirming they are supporting Greg’s family and maintaining contact with local authorities.

Community in Mourning

Tributes have poured in online from friends, family, and the wider Scottish community. “We are truly heartbroken,” said Jillian. “Everyone who knows Greg knows how much he will be missed and what an amazing guy he was.”

Organiser of the GoFundMe, Gillian McCallum, wrote: “We were desperately seeking Greg’s safe return. Every effort was made by the family and search teams. The support and donations meant everything.”