Organised Crime Targets Highlands
Northern Constabulary sign
The region’s new chief constable is admitting the Highlands and Islands is a target for organised criminals at home and abroad.
George Graham is praising Northern Constabulary for its good detection records but stressing police needed to stay one step ahead.
"Our aims include reducing serious and organised crime," he said at his first official press conference since replacing Ian Latimer at the helm earlier this month.
"We are not untouched by organised criminals — whether they are from the Central Belt in Scotland or from further afield in Europe or elsewhere in the UK.
"We are seen as a target by serious and organised criminals. They will take any advantage and we need to focus on making sure we are up to it."
Mr Graham has been impressed by the enthusiasm he has seen so far from officers across the Highlands and Islands.
"The commitment of our people here to do a good job is very difficult to buy," he added.
"It is very important to encourage, maintain and hold onto that."
