Man charged as part of investigation into organised crime and child exploitation
Officers working as part of Operation Dynos, tackling retail crime, arrested a 22-year-old man in Hamilton on July 17.
Police believe that vulnerable young people are being targeted by organised criminals to steal alcohol from stores across the West of Scotland.
The stolen goods are then resold, with profits being used to purchase drugs and fund further criminal activity within the region.
Operation Dynos received £3m in funding from the Scottish Government for 2025 and 2026 amid a concerning rise in retail crime.
The man was due to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court on July 18.
Detective inspector Vicki Douglas, who leads Operation Dynos, said: 'Retail crime is not victimless and in fact, what we've seen are some of the most vulnerable young people in our communities being actively recruited and indoctrinated into the theft and resale of goods from stores in the region by organised criminals for their financial gain.
'We are committed to tackling retail crime, while at the same time safeguarding young people from harm and coercion into criminal behaviour.
'Operation Dynos will continue to gather evidence and utilise all resources at our disposal to bring these individuals to justice.
'Meanwhile, our colleagues within the Retail Crime Taskforce will work alongside retailers to help enhance security measures and ensure all aspects of crime prevention are considered.'
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