More than £180,000 of drugs seized amid crackdown on immigration crime across Scotland

More than £180,000 of drugs have been seized during a multi-agency crackdown on organised immigration crime across Scotland.

Operation Lockstream, which aimed to safeguard vulnerable people at risk of exploitation, began on February 24 and took place over three days at airports, roads and ferry terminals.

The major investigation involved officers from Police Scotland the National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC), Border Force, Home Office Immigration, His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, and the Scottish SPCA throughout.

Over 660 people, who were travelling in and out of the country, were engaged with by officers.

Thirty vehicles were searched at ports in Stranraer, which resulted in 27kgs of cannabis being discovered at Loch Ryan. At Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh airports, 78 flights were met.

Over the course of the activity, £7,000 worth of cash was seized and four people were arrested in connection with drugs, road traffic and immigration offences.

Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Houston said: “Organised immigration crime is happening now in Scotland, and tackling it is a priority.

“We know that criminals use our transport hubs for a range of illegal activities, and working closely with our partners, we remain focused on targeting those who exploit vulnerable people solely for financial gain.

“Action like this is only possible through the continued support of our communities. Anyone with information or concerns should contact Police Scotland on 101 or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“I can assure you that you will be listened to and the information you provide could prove vital in helping us identify those involved in this type of criminality.”

Deputy Chief Constable Wendy Gunney, from the NPCC, added: “This week we have leveraged all of law enforcement powers at the UK’s borders to target people who come to the UK to commit any form of criminality.

“It has been a significant joint effort involving many officers, staff, and multiple agencies, across the rail network, roads, seaports and airports.

“This activity has generated strong results and crucial intelligence that will help us recognise patterns and better understand these criminal networks, ensuring we collectively continue to identify offenders and bring them to justice.”