Gang war reignites after vehicle torched outside East Lothian home

A gang war, which gripped Scotland’s central belt last year, has reignited after a vehicle outside a property was torched in East Lothian.

In March 2025, a criminal feud spread across the country with homes, cars and businesses firebombed, multiple assaults and threats issued.

Police Scotland launched a special task force, dubbed Operation Portaledge, to tackle the warring gangs following the rise in violence.

A total of 63 people have been charged as part of the organised crime crackdown.

Following a lull in activity, detectives believe an act of vandalism and wilful firerasing at a property on Jackson Way in Tranent is linked to the underworld feud.

No one was injured and no arrests have been made.

Police Scotland say the investigation is at an early stage.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 12.30am on Thursday, January 22, 2026, we received a report of a vandalism and a vehicle fire at a property on Jackson Way, Tranent.

“Emergency services attended and there were no reports of any injuries.

“Enquiries are at an early stage into the vandalism and wilful fireraising. Anyone with information should contact 101 quoting incident number 0068 of January 22, 2026.”