Two men appeared in court accused of extortion after the police swooped on four Aberdeen streets in a “day of action” against drugs.
Police Scotland revealed an intelligence-led operation targeted George Street, Fraser Court, Catherine Street, and Hutcheon Street on Monday.
Officers arrested seven men aged between 21 and 49, with cocaine and weapons also being recovered during searches carried out at multiple properties.
Two men have since appeared at Aberdeen Sheriff Court for a short hearing held in private earlier this week.
Scott Reid, 45, whose address was stated as Aberdeen, and 31-year-old Connon Henderson, of Aberdeenshire, each face one charge of extortion.
Released on bail
Henderson is also accused of a further three offences, including attempting to pervert the course of justice, having an offensive weapon in his possession, and resisting arrest.
Neither of the pair made any plea.
They were both committed for further examination and then granted bail.
A date for their next appearance has not been decided yet.
Following Monday’s spike in police activity, Police Scotland appealed for information.
‘Drugs cause misery in our communities’
“The result of this day of action underlines our commitment to the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce and the country’s Serious Organise Crime Strategy.
“The public has an important role in assisting police, and I would urge anyone with information or concerns to contact us via 101, or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) said it had not yet received reports for three of the men arrested on June 16.
An official confirmed that a further two men were to be prosecuted under the summary procedure for handling less serious crimes.
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