Police have recovered drugs worth more than £180,000 during a nationwide operation targeting organised immigration crime at transport hubs across Scotland.
The three day operation began on 24 February 2026 and involved officers engaging with more than 660 people travelling through airports, roads and ferry terminals.
Police Scotland worked alongside a number of partner agencies during the operation as part of a coordinated effort to disrupt organised crime groups.
Thirty vehicles were searched at ferry ports in Stranraer where officers discovered 27kg of cannabis at Loch Ryan.
Across Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh airports a total of 78 flights were met by officers as part of the enforcement activity.
During the course of the operation around £7,000 in cash was seized and four people were arrested in connection with drugs, road traffic and immigration offences.
The operation was carried out in partnership with the National Police Chiefs Council, Border Force, Home Office Immigration, His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs and the Scottish SPCA.
Police said a key aim of Operation Lockstream was to protect vulnerable people who may be at risk of exploitation by organised criminal networks.
Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Houston, Police Scotland’s lead for organised crime and counter terrorism, said tackling immigration crime remains a priority.
“Organised immigration crime is happening now in Scotland and tackling it is a priority.
“We know that criminals use our transport hubs for a range of illegal activities and working closely with our partners we remain focused on targeting those who exploit vulnerable people solely for financial gain.
“Action like this is only possible through the continued support of our communities.
“Anyone with information or concerns should contact Police Scotland on 101 or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
“I can assure you that you will be listened to and the information you provide could prove vital in helping us identify those involved in this type of criminality.”
Deputy Chief Constable Wendy Gunney, who leads the National Police Chiefs Council organised immigration crime domestic taskforce, said the operation involved extensive cooperation across law enforcement.
“This week we have leveraged all of law enforcement powers at the UK’s borders to target people who come to the UK to commit any form of criminality.
“It has been a significant joint effort involving many officers, staff and multiple agencies across the rail network, roads, seaports and airports.
“This activity has generated strong results and crucial intelligence that will help us recognise patterns and better understand these criminal networks.
“Ensuring we collectively continue to identify offenders and bring them to justice.”
Police say intelligence gathered during the operation will now be used to strengthen future action against organised immigration crime networks operating across the United Kingdom.
