Man arrested in Liverpool in connection with illegal fireworks supply in Edinburgh

A man has been charged in connection with the distribution of illegal fireworks in Edinburgh.

Prior to Bonfire Night 2025, Edinburgh Division CID conducted local inquiries into individuals linked with possessing and selling fireworks, which intelligence suggested were intended for use in disorder offences.

Over 1200 kilos of illegal fireworks were subsequently seized during this time, including one tonne recovered in Rosyth on 27 October.

Further investigation was carried out jointly with Merseyside Police and yesterday (Tuesday, 18 November) a 28-year-old man was arrested by officers from both Police Scotland and Merseyside Police and was charged with Conspiracy (aid, abet and incite disorder).

Detective Inspector Stevie Dick from Edinburgh CID said: “This arrest is testament to the outstanding collaboration between Police Scotland and Merseyside Police and our joint commitment to removing illicit and harmful items, such as illegal fireworks, from our communities.

“A number of lines of inquiry remain ongoing into offences identified prior to, and during the Bonfire Night period and we will utilise all resources at our disposal, working alongside key partners, to bring offenders to justice.”

Liverpool Local Policing Sergeant Ken Blundell from Merseyside Police said: “It is pleasing to see this investigation progressing, and as always it a pleasure to work alongside our colleagues in Police Scotland.

“When police forces work in partnership, we stand stronger to remove obstacles reduce risks to our communities.”

Wester Hailes shooting: Second man arrested as enquiries continue

A 25-year-old man has been arrested following an investigation into the discharge of a firearm.

The incident occurred at around 3.40pm on Thursday, 24 July, 2025 on Hailesland Gardens, Wester Hailes.

A 23-year-old man was treated in hospital for arm injuries sustained during the incident.

A 36-year-old man was also previously arrested in connection with the incident, but was subsequently released.

Enquiries are ongoing.

Further arrest in connection with Operation Portaledge

A 38-year-old man has been arrested in connection with Operation Portaledge, bringing the total number of arrests to 55.

Yesterday – Friday, 18 July, 2025 – officers arrested and charged the man in connection with wilful fire-raising and firearms offences. He is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, 21 July.

A 26-year-old man has been charged in connection with damage at a property on Walter Scott Avenue in Edinburgh on Thursday, 12 June, and a wilful fire-raising at a property on Jackson Way in Tranent on Friday, 13 June. He will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal.

Another 26-year-old man was also charged in connection with two vehicle fires in Port Seton, which occurred on Sunday, 18 May.

He will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal.

Another arrest in central belt organised crime gangs feud

A further arrest has been made as detectives continue to investigate a number of linked incidents in the West and East of Scotland, bringing the total to 42.

Officers executed a warrant at an address in Glasgow on the evening of Thursday, 29 May, 2025.

A 20-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with fire-raising at a house on Drumchapel Road, Glasgow, on Tuesday, 13 May. He appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court on Friday, 30 May. 

Extensive enquiries remain ongoing and a dedicated team of officers from our Specialist Crime Division, with support from local divisions across the country, continue to work together to gather vital evidence and reassure the public with intelligence-led patrols. 

Over the course of the investigation so far, more than 8,000 homes have been visited and more than 1,600 vehicles have been stopped, as officers continue to gather information.

Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Ferry said: “I want to be clear that violence will not be tolerated, and we will not stop until we bring those responsible to justice. 

“We are still following positive lines of enquiry, and this arrest highlights our continued resolve to target organised crime. 

“The support of our communities remains vital, and I want to again express my sincere thanks to the public for their continued help and information so far. 

“If you know anything that could assist our ongoing investigation, please do the right thing and speak to us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident number 0562 of Friday, 21 March, 2025. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.