A PENSIONER has been arrested after organised crime and counter terrorism officers found counterfeit goods during a dawn raid on two houses and two businesses.

 

The multi-agency operation, also involving Lanarkshire divisional officers, the HMRC, Trading Standards, DWP and SEPA searched the premises under warrant as part of an ongoing police operation in Lanarkshire on Wednesday.

Private addresses hit were in Faulkner Grove, Motherwell, and Gilchrist Way, Wishaw, while the businesses searched were located at Biggar Road Industrial Estate, Cleland and in Larkhall.

Forty five vehicles were also tested for red diesel.

Detective Inspector Graeme Naysmith of the Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit (East) said: "During the intelligence-led operation a number of items were seized including counterfeit clothing and counterfeit tobacco.

"A 65-year-old man has been arrested in connection with alleged involvement in serious and organised crime.

"He is subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal.

"Enquiries are ongoing in relation to the items seized during this operation and the information gathered.

"Police Scotland takes any allegations of serious and organised crime very seriously.

"This operation demonstrates our commitment and successful partnership approach in tackling the issues which can cause misery to people living in our local communities."