Three arrested following £8m drugs recovery

Three men have been arrested and charged in connection with one of the largest drugs recoveries in Scotland, worth more than £8 million.

On Thursday, 11 December, 2025, officers executed a warrant at a premises on Melford Road in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire and cocaine with an estimated street value of more than £8m was recovered.

The men, aged 29, 46 and 65, were arrested and charged in connection. 

They are due to appear at Hamilton Sheriff Court on Monday, 15 December, 2025.

Enquiries into the full circumstances are ongoing.

Detectives Superintendent Steven Elliot said: “This was a sizeable recovery – one of the most significant we’ve seen in Scotland.

"This work underlines our commitment to the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce and the country’s Serious Organised Crime Strategy. Taking drugs off the street is a priority for Police Scotland.

“Drugs cause misery in our communities, and the public has a vital role in helping us to trace those involved in the supply of illegal substances.

“Anyone with information or concerns about drugs should contact us via 101 or make a call to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”