Tragic End to Portugal Stag Do as Missing Scot Greg Monks Found Dead After Days of Search

What began as a celebration turned into heartbreak, as the search for 38-year-old Greg Monks came to a devastating conclusion this week. The Scottish man from Glasgow, who disappeared during a stag do in Albufeira, Portugal, was confirmed dead after local authorities discovered a body in a rough and remote area where he was last seen.

Monks had arrived in Albufeira on May 28 for what was supposed to be the first night of a five-day stag celebration with friends. But the night took a tragic turn when he went missing in the early hours and failed to return to his accommodation. Despite efforts by his family, friends, and local authorities, hopes of a safe return slowly faded.

According to the local police, the body was located in the Cerro de Aguia region — a vacant and rugged area surrounded by cliffs and rocky terrain. Officials confirmed that it was the same place Monks was believed to have been seen on CCTV during the initial hours of his disappearance. The body has since been transferred to a local medical facility for a full autopsy, in line with Portuguese legal procedures.

Back in Scotland, the disappearance had shaken his family to the core. His sisters, Jillian and Carlyn, emotionally appealed to both authorities and the public, describing Greg as “a real family man” and “someone who would never just walk away without letting someone know.” Jillian had expressed fears early on, noting how “unlike him” it was to not be in touch.

The sisters also criticized the initial response to their missing person report, stating it “wasn’t taken seriously” due to the short time frame. They later revealed that police did not have adequate manpower to cover the entire terrain, and even called for sniffer dogs to be deployed in the search — efforts that, unfortunately, may have come too late.

As news of the tragic discovery reached home, tributes poured in across social media. In a heartfelt post, Jillian wrote: “Greg was an amazing boy who everyone thought so highly of. He was friends with everyone, always made us laugh. If love coulda saved you, you would live forever. Miss you forever, brother.”

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) confirmed they are providing assistance to the family and remain in close contact with Portuguese authorities.

The loss of Greg Monks has left a deep scar on his family and community — a vacation that began in celebration ended in an unimaginable tragedy. While questions still remain about the circumstances of his disappearance and death, one thing is clear: Greg’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.