Police have arrested and charged a 26 year old man after a large scale cannabis cultivation was uncovered in Tomintoul.

Officers executed a warrant at an address on Main Street on the morning of 13 April, where the cultivation was discovered.

The operation is estimated to have a street value of up to £818,000, marking it as a significant find in the ongoing effort to tackle organised crime.

The man is due to appear at Elgin Sheriff Court on 14 April.

The discovery forms part of wider work being carried out across Scotland to disrupt serious and organised crime networks.

Constable Chris MacKinnon said:

“This was a substantial recovery which highlights the work being carried out to tackle serious and organised crime and disrupt those involved.

“We remain committed to the Serious and Organised Crime Taskforce and Scotland’s Serious and Organised Crime Strategy.

“Information from the public is vital in helping us target those involved in the supply of drugs.

“Anyone with concerns about drugs in their area is encouraged to contact police on 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Police say intelligence from the public continues to play a key role in identifying illegal activity and supporting enforcement action.

The case will now proceed through the courts as part of the wider effort to clamp down on drug production and supply across the Highlands.

This is another reminder that organised crime is not confined to cities, and that even the quietest communities are not immune.