Dubai Police, in cooperation with the UAE Ministry of Interior, have played a key role in dismantling one of Scotland’s most violent criminal organisations, known as the Lyons Clan.
The operation formed part of an international crackdown on money laundering and organised crime, under Operation Armorum, led by Spain’s Guardia Civil.
Authorities say 14 suspects have been arrested across several countries, including the UAE, while another 20 individuals remain under investigation in Spain.
In Dubai, police arrested a member of the group upon arrival at the airport, following the issuance of an Interpol Red Notice. Officials say the swift action highlights the force’s readiness and strong coordination with international partners.
The operation brought together several major agencies, including Spain’s Guardia Civil, Europol, the UK’s National Crime Agency, and the US Drug Enforcement Administration.
Together, they were able to identify members of the network, dismantle its structure, and seize assets linked to its criminal activities.
Investigators say the group was involved in drug trafficking and money laundering across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, using shell companies and complex financial systems to conceal illegal profits.
#News | Dubai Police Aid Dismantling One of the Most Violent International Criminal Organisations
— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) April 9, 2026
Details:https://t.co/wB8vnIn4ch#YourSecurityOurHappiness pic.twitter.com/IJ9KjlSq25
👮♂️🟢 La @guardiacivil desmantela el “Clan de los Lyons”, la organización criminal escocesa más violenta de las últimas décadas.
— Ministerio del Interior (@interiorgob) April 9, 2026
➡️ 14 detenidos entre España, Escocia, Indonesia y Emiratos Árabes Unidos.
➡️ 20 investigados en nuestro país.
🌐 https://t.co/86ANBeBy3y pic.twitter.com/6vIWAo73di

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