Scotland to be a ‘hostile place’ for fugitives, says new crime unit chief

A FUGITIVE unit will be launched as part of the new national police force aimed at catching criminals when they flee abroad, Chief Constable Steve House has announced.

• A new unit set up to catch criminals fleeing abroad to be launched by Police Service of Scotland

• Fugitive unit to deal with criminals who flee to Scotland to escape justice overseas

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It will also tackle offenders who come to Scotland to escape justice overseas, and who present a risk to communities in this country.

The Police Service of Scotland is also involved in talks about a possible Europe-wide serious and organised crime unit, which would be set up in partnership with Europol.

Mr House said: “Smarter international engagement and co-operation will ensure that Scotland is a hostile place for criminals involved in serious organised crime and that neighbouring European country and nations further afield are hostile places for those fleeing Scottish justice.

“The public in Scotland rightfully expect to be kept safe from threats that originate from outside the country. They also expect criminals who flee serious crimes by hiding across the world to be lawfully apprehended and to stand trial. Those involved in serious organised crime continue to exploit our borders for criminal opportunity as well as to evade justice.

“A dedicated International Unit within Police Scotland will ensure we continue to maintain and grow our connections to improve international police-to-police co-operation.”

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