Police tackle drugs and violence

Police swooped in Elgin on Monday Enlarge Image

Almost 100 police officers have taken part in a major operation against what was said to be a violent organised crime gang distributing drugs in Moray.

Grampian Police said intensive inquiries over several months had led to search and detention warrants being executed on Monday in Elgin.

The inquiry centred on "large scale distribution of drugs, racketeering, threats and intimidation".

The warrants were executed in and around Chanonry Caravan Site.

'Organised crime'

Superintendent Alan Smailes, commander of Moray Division, said: "It is clear that, what is in effect, an organised crime group had established itself in the Elgin and surrounding areas and was involved in the wholesale distribution of illicit drugs, threats and violence.

"The fear, blight and misery caused by those involved in this vile trade has affected not only the people of Elgin, but the wider community of the Moray area.

"I have no doubt that the action we are undertaking today is sending out a very clear and very strong message to those involved in serious crime in the Moray area. We will not tolerate such activity and we will take positive action to present those involved before the courts."

He added: "I am confident that the people of Moray will be heartened by such positive action and would ask for their co-operation and assistance as our enquiries progress."