Woman arrested amid probe into 'missing ashes' and misconduct at funeral directors

A woman has been arrested in connection with an investigation into misconduct at a former funeral directors.

Police conducted searches of residential properties in Springburn and Bishopbriggs on Monday, July 22 where the 55year-old was taken into custody.

Officers seized a number of items said to be relevant to the ongoing investigation into the storage and return of cremated remains and allegations of financial misconduct.

The items were not human remains, STV News understands.

The woman was released pending further enquiries.

Specialist officers carried out searches at a branch of A Milne Funeral Directors in Springburn between May 3 and 14, 2024, after several families reported allegations of ashes going missing, and financial misconduct.

The firm, which also had a branch in Dumbarton, no longer operates from the premises.

The police investigation, named Operation Koine, was launched after families reported missing remains.

Earlier this year, Glasgow City Council confirmed that 19 ashes containers recovered during the police search of the address near Springburn Park were handed over to them – just days after eight urns were handed over to Argyll and Bute Council.

Four caskets of the remains found have not yet been identified and will require further direction from the Scottish Government Inspector, Police Scotland said.

Detective sergeant Kieran Bewick said: “This is a very complex investigation which has had a big impact on those families affected.

“I would like to thank the public for their assistance so far.

“Our enquiries into this sensitive and emotive case remain ongoing and I would encourage anyone with any information on this case to contact us.

“Anyone wishing to get in touch with officers is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 1289 of May 2, 2024 or use the dedicated email address – Operationkoine@scotland.police.uk”