Police Scotland text thousands of numbers obtained following serious organised crime operation

Officers in Glasgow have sent a text to thousands of people who may have contacted ‘drug lines’ used by an organised crime group to sell drugs - and signpost them to agencies offering support for substance misuse.

Officers from Greater Glasgow’s Serious Organised Crime Unit, seized a number of mobile devices during an intelligence-led operation.

Thousands of mobile numbers were obtained during legal examination of the devices, and a message signposting to support has been sent to the numbers saved as having been in contact with the drugs lines.

The message, sent by Police Scotland, will acknowledge that the contact may not have purchased drugs, but it will provide details of where support and assistance for substance misuse can be obtained.

Detective Inspector Tom Carey, Greater Glasgow Serious Organised Crime Unit, said:

“We are committed to disrupting the activities of organised criminals and making it hostile for them to operate. However, we are acutely aware that there are people with vulnerabilities who may require support for problematic substance use.

“Police Scotland takes a public health-led approach to the harm of drugs and we want to make people aware support is available, if they feel they need it.

“Serious organised crime has no place in our communities or a civilised society and we will continue to work with others, such as the members of the Serious Crime Taskforce to thwart the nefarious activities of those involved.”

Following the operation, five men, aged 28, 29, 34, 36 and 53 years, and a 41-year-old woman were arrested and charged in connection with serious organised crime, drug and money laundering offences.

Officers also seized cash, as well as high-value jewellery, watches and high-performance cars.

All six appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court on Thursday, 7 September 2023.