Drugs and weapons seized after crackdown on UK-wide gangs terrorising Scotland

Police in Scotland have successfully cracked down on UK-wide gangs that have been terrorising the country, seizing drugs and weapons in the process. The operation specifically targeted county lines gangs, which typically operate from major cities and send children or young people into rural areas to distribute drugs. This tactic, known as “cuckooing”, involves hiding these individuals in the homes of vulnerable people, such as drug users.

During the crackdown between November 25 and December 1, Police Scotland officers identified and safeguarded 66 vulnerable individuals as part of a coordinated effort led by the National Police Chiefs Council. In total, 81 arrests were made – 60 men and 21 women – with 54 warrants executed. The police seized drugs worth £322,000, including heroin, crack cocaine, cocaine, cannabis, ketamine, synthetic opioids, and mixing agents.

Additionally, weapons such as an axe, corrosive substances, a machete, lock knives, and pepper spray were confiscated. Over £60,000 in cash was seized along with various items like mobile phones, electric bikes, and vehicles. The police also visited 79 addresses, 25 of which were believed to be used as cuckooing houses by drug dealers. In total, officers engaged with 3,210 vulnerable individuals as part of the operation.

Assistant Chief Constable Andy Freeburn emphasised the ruthless nature of organised criminals involved in these gangs, highlighting their disregard for anyone other than themselves. He stressed the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals, especially children and young people who are often coerced by these criminals. The crackdown on county lines gangs is ongoing, with recent joint operations between Police Scotland and the Met Police resulting in significant arrests and seizures of drugs and cash.

Justice Secretary Angela Constance commended the efforts of Police Scotland in dismantling these criminal operations and ensuring that those responsible are held to account. She urged anyone with information on county lines activities to come forward either to the police or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

The successful crackdown on these gangs is a testament to the dedication and hard work of law enforcement agencies in safeguarding communities and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation and harm. It sends a clear message that such criminal activities will not be tolerated in Scotland, and efforts will continue to root out these illegal operations.