Around 100 arrested and 11 children rescued in gangbusting probe

Around 100 people have been arrested and 11 children rescued in a major police operation against a rising Scottish drug gang.

Officers seized more than 200kg of illegal drugs and three guns while targeting a criminal network operating across the country, including in Dumfries, Ayrshire, and central Scotland.

The Operation Intensity investigation, which began in May 2023, indicated that the gang exploited vulnerable people in deprived communities to fund their illicit activity.

Officers also identified 11 children who were “groomed” by the county lines dealers as part of the illegal activity. The at-risk children were safeguarded by law enforcement.

Police carried out 46 raids during Operation Intensity, resulting in large quantities of drugs, including more than 45kg of cocaine, one kilogram of heroin, 5,000 ecstasy pills and 111kg herbal cannabis being seized.

Detectives also recovered more than £600,000 in cash and firearms, including a handgun, air weapon and a BB gun from addresses targeted with raids

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.

“These arrests and seizures highlight our dedication to tackling organised networks in Scotland. Illegal substances cause real harm and misery to individuals, families and communities.

“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 should contact Police Scotland on 101 or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”