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Passengers smuggling cash into Scotland to fund potential terrorist activity and organised crime are being targeted at Edinburgh Airport by border agents and police.

In the recent crackdown, a sniffer dog has been brought in to smell out banknotes that have been concealed in clothing and baggage.

According to the police, foreign criminals are bringing in the money to fund operations various operations, such as cannabis farms, and to fund homegrown groups as well.

A major concern, according to police comments, is that cash bankrolling potential terrorist attacks could be brought into Scotland by couriers.

The UK Border Agency (UKBA) and the Airport Policing Unit have indicated that the increase in passenger traffic at the Edinburgh Airport has made it more appealing to those bringing in cash and drugs.

At the end of last week, the agencies conducted a joint one-day clampdown, called Operation Awry, targeting every flight departing and coming in, but did not find any illegal cash or drugs during that time.

David Moncur, an inspector with the Airport Policing Unit, said: “Edinburgh Airport is getting busier, with more flights coming in and out than ever before. It’s now Scotland’s busiest airport.”

He added: “It’s fair to say that the increased number of passengers makes it more attractive for criminals to try and move drugs and cash through here. That’s especially true through the summer holiday months.”

Thanks to news.scotsman.com for the above quotes, for more information on this article please visit their website.

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