Police have sent thousands of text messages to numbers obtained from the seized mobile phones of suspected ‘drugs lines’ gang members in Glasgow.
The text messages contain details of support services people affected by drugs can contact for help after a coordinated serious and organised crime operation in the city.
Officers from Greater Glasgow’s Serious Organised Crime Unit seized a number of mobile devices during an intelligence-led operation. Around 1,800 texts have been sent in the last three weeks to people offering a website link to the Scottish Drugs Forum, which gives details of addiction support services in their area.
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.
