Nearly 100 arrested, '200kg drugs' seized in crime crackdown

Glasgow Times

08-05-2025

Operation Intensity, which began in May 2023, targeted a well-funded criminal network believed to be exploiting vulnerable people in deprived communities to support their illicit activities.
The arrests took place across both rural and urban regions, including key areas such as Dumfries, Ayrshire, and Central Scotland.
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Officers from the Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit led the operation, which focused on disrupting the gang's widespread dealing network.
The criminal group reportedly used car couriers to run drug supply lines, regularly resupplied from strategically located safe houses.
In total, 46 search warrants were executed across the country.
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Through the raids, officers allegedly recovered large quantities of drugs, including cocaine, heroin, ecstasy, pills, and herbal cannabis. As well as over £600,000 in cash and firearms, including a handgun, air weapon, BB gun, and accompanying ammunition.
In addition to the arrests and seizures, 11 children were safeguarded after officers identified them as being at risk due to the gang's activities.
They have since been referred to appropriate partner agencies or placed in the care of family members.
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Stevie Elliot, Detective Superintendent, highlighted the operation's scale and importance: 'This operation is a clear example of how we use our national resources, alongside the knowledge of our local policing teams, to bring down large gangs operating across the country.
'Our strategy was maximising the safety of the public and protecting vulnerable people, particularly children and young people who are all too often coerced and groomed by County Lines drug dealers.
'Organised criminal gangs show no shame or remorse for their actions, and all their activities are focused on profiting from exploitation."
He added that the operation reflects Police Scotland's ongoing commitment to the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce, which employs a multi-agency approach to tackling the threat posed by organised crime groups (OCGs).
He concluded with a public appeal: 'We cannot do this alone, and we need the public's help to rid these gangs from their communities.
"I would urge anyone with information or concerns about drugs or organised activities should contact Police Scotland on 101 or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.'