Cops dismantle huge drugs gang as over 100 arrested and 11 kids saved from grooming
Detectives rescued 11 children who were at risk of being groomed for so-called county-line activities.
A major police crackdown has dismantled a Scots organised crime gang, with around 100 arrests and more than 200kg worth of drugs seized.
As well as the huge drug haul — which included cocaine, heroin, ecstasy, pills and herbal cannabis — police recovered more than £600,000 in cash, ammunition, and three firearms, including a handgun, air weapon and a BB gun.
Detectives also rescued 11 children who were at risk of being groomed for so-called county-line activities. The vulnerable youngsters were either referred to partner agencies or placed with family members.
Operation Intensity, launched in May 2023, targeted a organised criminal network operating in Dumfries, Ayrshire, and Central Scotland — with links spanning as far as Argyll to Tayside. Officers from the Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit led the investigation.
Police Scotland say the gang ran a sophisticated County Lines-style operation, with couriers travelling by car to supply drugs using so-called 'dealing lines', which were regularly resupplied from safe houses.
46 search warrants were executed across both rural and urban areas, resulting in arrests and seizures.
Detective Superintendent Stevie Elliot said: "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.
"Illegal substances cause real harm and misery to individuals, families and communities. These arrests and seizures highlight our dedication to tackling organised networks in Scotland."
Police Scotland said the operation reflects its ongoing commitment to the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce, which uses a multi-agency approach to disrupt dangerous criminal groups.
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DS Elliot added: 'This shows our commitment to the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce where we work with partners on a multi-agency approach to tackling the threat of OCGs.
"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 to contact Police Scotland on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
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