Police Scotland have seized more than £1 million in drugs, cash and stolen goods in the last year on a major road in Dumfries and Galloway.

The M74 was the most successful area for the police with the road being used for the link between England and Scotland with police chiefs admitting that the route is frequently used for criminal activity and transport. The seizure of illegal drugs accounted for most of the haul with £685,000 worth of drugs seized on the road. 

Targeting Crime on Scotland's Motorways

The seizing of drugs, stolen items and other illegal items were as a result of tip-offs, routine checks and sharing of information with other forces according to the Police. Some operations involved HM Revenue and Customs, UK Border Agency, Trading Standards, organised crime officers and other forces across the UK.

The increase in detections has been cited for a number of reasons such as good police work and working with forces, even those across the border.

Chief Inspector Watson said: "We have had a lot of success in the past over numerous years.

“In the past year we have taken about £1m of commodity off the road network.

"The whole division is looking at pro-actively targeting organised crime."

He added: “Organised crime doesn't restrict itself to police boundaries or Scotland-England boundaries.

“Our own contribution towards fighting organised crime has remained a priority for ourselves given the impact that it can have."

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