Two Scots men on police wanted list may have ‘ come to harm abroad’
Officers appeal for information on pair who are still at large as part of a major operation
TWO men wanted by police in connection with “organised crime” may have “come to harm abroad”. Since it started in 2014, Police Scotland’s Operation Escalade has seen 42 people convicted for serious offences including being involved in serious and organised crime, the supply and possession of drugs, firearm offences and money laundering.
Eight fugitives connected to the group’s criminality in Scotland have been arrested on international warrants in Europe and South America with the cooperation of law enforcement partners in the UK and abroad.
They have been extradited back to Scotland to face justice.
Most recently, Police Scotland officers arrested a fugitive in Brazil during an operation with the Brazilian Federal Police and another man was extradited from Italy after being arrested in Turin.
However, two other men, James and Barry Gillespie, remain at large and are still wanted for their involvement with the group.
Officers say they have been in contact with the brothers’ family and have suggested it is possible they may have come to harm abroad.
Detective Inspector Michael Lochrie, of Police Scotland’s Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit, said: “Despite previous appeals, which have focused on The Netherlands and Brazil, we are still appealing for anyone who has information about the current whereabouts of James and Barry Gillespie to get in touch with Police Scotland.
“The dedicated team of officers attached to Operation Escalade have been successfully targeting those involved in serious organised crime domestically and internationally for nine years.
“A number of the arrests made were only possible due to the support of international law enforcement agencies abroad.
“This cooperation remains ongoing and I am grateful for the assistance of our colleagues.”
Anyone with information about James and Barry Gillespie should contact Police Scotland on 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.