Police hunting for a notorious drugs baron who has gone on the run from an open prison say he may be in the Edinburgh area. Sean McGovern was reported missing at around 10pm on Sunday, June 11, after absconding from HMP Castle Huntly, near Dundee.
Sources claim the 39-year-old was handed a “threat to life notice” - known as an Osman letter - just days before he vanished. In 2016, McGovern, known as ‘Lugs’, was targeted in a horrifying slashing in Edinburgh city centre while about to return to prison after home leave.
Two hitmen set upon him with blades, witnessed by a Record reporter and photographer, before fleeing in a Skoda. A source said: “Lugs got an Osman about two days before he disappeared. After what happened to him last time, he obviously wasn’t taking any chances.
“He’s in Castle Huntly because he’s not far from being released. To take such a drastic step and risk having his time in jail extended shows he thinks the threat is real.”
On Friday, Police Scotland said: “Officers are re-appealing for information on the whereabouts of 39-year-old Sean McGovern, a prisoner who absconded from HMP Castle Huntly.
“Sean was reported missing to police around 10pm on Sunday, 11 June. The most recent information provided to police is that he may have travelled to the Edinburgh or Lothian area.
“However, despite extensive enquiries and searches, he has not yet been traced. Sean is described as white, around 5ft 8ins in height and of stocky build with a scar on his right cheek.
“When he absconded he was wearing a dark-coloured woollen hat and a dark-coloured long sleeved top, with light-coloured trousers and trainers.
“Officers are again advising members of the public not to approach him if they see him but to contact police.”
McGovern was sentenced to 17 years jail after firing two rounds from a shotgun outside the Gauntlet Bar, in Broomhouse, Edinburgh, in 2008.
He got six years and nine months for the gun attack and 10 years for running a heroin empire in the capital.
Anyone who has seen Sean since Sunday evening, or who has any information on his whereabouts is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 with the reference 4025 of 11 June.
Alternatively contact Crimestoppers through 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.
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