Scot accused of worldwide cocaine smuggling ring allegedly hid drugs in fruit

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A man accused of masterminding a worldwide drug smuggling ring with cocaine allegedly hidden in deliveries of fruit, has blamed two men who are currently behind bars.James Stevenson is said to have directed the trafficking operation which spanned the UK, Spain, Ecuador and the luxury Nurai Island resort in Abu Dhabi.The 59-year-old and five others appeared in the dock for the start of a trial at the High Court in Glasgow today.

Prosecutors have listed 14 charges in a seven page indictment. The accusations span between January and September 2020. They include claims Stevenson allegedly ordered a Lloyd Cross, David Bilsland, 67, and unnamed others to commit "a serious offence" by importing and supplying cocaine.It is alleged the class A drug was to be "concealed in deliveries of fruit" destined for the "Glasgow Fruit Market" at an address in the city's Townhead.Dirty money is said to have funded the set-up involving the purchase of equipment, leasing premises, buying cars and registering company directors under fake names for the "Glasgow Fruit Market".Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in!If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'.We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.