Fourteen arrested in crackdown on organised crime

Police have arrested 14 people as part of an operation targeting organised crime in Aberdeenshire.

Detectives executed search warrants and also targeted people suspected of being involved in illegal activities in Aberdeen between Monday, January 15, and Saturday, January 20.

Officers said that 13 people were charged in connection with a number of offences, including weapon possession, drugs supply and violence.

A 49-year-old man was arrested in Fraserburgh and charged in connection with an assault involving an offensive weapon.

A 59-year-old woman and a 41-year-old man were arrested in Peterhead and charged in connection with drug offences. They appeared at Peterhead Sheriff Court on Monday, January 22.

After being found in possession of a weapon, a 28-year-old man was arrested and charged.

Reports were sent to the Procurator Fiscal in connection with another three people found in possession of drugs; a 46-year-old man in Fraserburgh, a 51-year-old woman and 29-year-old woman in Peterhead.

And seven people were also arrested in Banff, Peterhead and Fraserburgh following the execution of warrants for outstanding offences.

Chief inspector Steven McDonald, North Aberdeenshire area commander, said: “Detectives, local police officers and officers from our Violence Reduction Unit, targeted areas where members of the public have reported concerns about ongoing crime.

“During the week-long-initiative officers carried out patrols, searches and executed warrants resulting in the arrest of a number of individuals known for violence, organised crime and supplying drugs.

“This sends a clear message that these kinds of activities are not welcome in our communities and they will not be tolerated. We will continue to disrupt this type of crime and work to deter those involved.

“We listen to reports made to us and I would urge the public to continue to report any concerns as this is a vital source of information that can help to stamp out illegal activities that cause misery and harm.

“This initiative underlines our commitment to the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce and the country’s Serious Organised Crime Strategy.”

“You can report concerns to us via 101, or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”