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Four of Scotland's most high-profile gangland figures have been apprehended in the UAE.

Steven Lyons, McGill, Stephen Jamieson and Larwood were reportedly taken into custody on earlier this week.

Police allege all four are tied to criminality such as smuggling to a conflict between rival networks in the west and Edinburgh.

This conflict has reportedly resulted in a wave of violent incidents, shootings and firebombings since spring.

Overseas Cooperation

Detectives have been sharing data with police in the UAE, where the men are all residing.

It is uncertain whether police in Scotland were notified of the UAE operations in advance.

It remains to be seen whether charges will be filed or whether return proceedings will be initiated to bring the men—who may be regarded a flight risk—back to the UK.

Current Investigation

Authorities working on a targeted investigation have so far made multiple arrests.

Authorities have indicated that the impact of the Dubai apprehensions is highly significant.

“The group are active at the upper echelon of organized crime, both at a UK and an overseas level.”

Context of the Suspects

Lyons is the figurehead of a crime group that has been engaged in a violent feud with a rival faction for decades.

In 2006, he was injured in a assault at a garage in north Glasgow, which claimed the life of his relative.

He later moved to Europe before moving in the Emirates.

In May, Steven Lyons' brother, Lyons Jnr, and Monaghan were killed in a beachfront bar in the Costa del Sol.

Both men had spent the evening attending the football final before they were ambushed by a single shooter.

A suspect from Liverpool has been named by authorities in connection with the deaths, with a full legal proceeding scheduled for the future.

Authorities have emphasized there is no evidence to suggest the murders in abroad are connected to the ongoing gang war or that it was organized in the UK.

Additional Details

Ross McGill first became recognized to authorities for his activities as a key figure of a fan organization.

Since March, he has risen as a key figure in the gangland feud responsible for a string of violence in both eastern and western parts of the region.

Steven Larwood is a affiliate of Steven Lyons and previously resided in abroad before moving to Dubai.

Stephen Jamieson, who has been based in the desert city for a some time, has connections to additional criminal figures.

Authorities have refused to confirm the apprehensions.

It is believed that diplomatic intervention has not been requested.

Dubai Police have not yet commented on the situation.