Eleven children safeguarded by police amid crackdown on organised crime

Police Scotland said it has safeguarded 11 children as part of an investigation into an organised crime gang.

The force said it has made around 100 arrests, seized more than 200kg of illegal drugs and recovered three firearms.

Operation Intensity, which began in May 2023, targeted a network operating across Scotland, including in Dumfries, Ayrshire and central Scotland.

In total, 46 search warrants were executed, resulting in large quantities of cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and cannabis being seized.

Around £600,000 in cash was also recovered, as well as a handgun, an air gun, a BB gun, and ammunition.

Police said the 11 children who were identified as being at risk were referred to partner agencies of Police Scotland or were passed into the care of family members.

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.”

In an appeal to the public for help in further disrupting the crime group, he added: “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.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.