Police have been told two alleged drug kingpins, who are wanted by authorities, may have come to harm whilst living abroad.
Officers believe brothers, James and Barry Gillespie, play a huge role in Glasgow's underworld.
However, the brother's family have indicated the pair were harmed after escaping to another country. It has previously been alleged that the Gillespies, from Rutherglen, were executed in Brazil following a fall out with gangsters.
READ MORE: Glasgow nursery targeted by vandals given new play equipment for kids
The pair were initially posted as missing but are now presumed dead.
Operation Escalade has been aimed at disrupting organised crime since 2014, with 42 people being convicted for their involvement in gang related activity including the supply and possession of drugs, firearms offences and money laundering.
Eight fugitives have been arrested on international warrants in Europe and South America and extradited back to Scotland in connection with gang activity.
Recently officers apprehended a wanted individual in Brazil during a joint operation with Brazilian law enforcement and another was extradited from Italy after an arrest was made in Turin.
Detective Inspector Michael Lochrie of Police Scotland’s Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit said: “Despite previous appeals, which have focussed 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 co-operation remains ongoing and I am grateful for the assistance of our colleagues.”
Police are appealing for anyone who may know the whereabouts of James and Barry Gillespie should contact 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously.
READ NEXT -
Glasgow man's impressive five stone weight loss after being told he could lose limb
Glasgow rapist Isla Bryson will not serve sentence at all-female prison, Nicola Sturgeon confirms
Glasgow has over 2000 more children living in poverty since the Covid-19 pandemic
Missing 15-year-old last seen at Glasgow's Silverburn shopping centre
Leading health and social care experts back campaign to save Food Train Glasgow charity
