'Titanium Otter' admits to being involved in Highlands organised crime gang

The boss of an organised crime gang in the Highlands was arrested by police after touching down from a holiday in South-east Asia.

In cracked encrypted messages, Ryan Ferguson called himself “Titanium Otter” as he directed his illegal operation including organising drug 'stash sites' in woods in the region.

Ferguson, (30), from Inverness, pleaded guilty today at the High Court in Glasgow to a charge of being involved serious organised crime between June 2019 and September 2021.

The offence included being concerned in the sale and supply of cocaine and cannabis.

At one point Ferguson even got one gang member – an ex-amateur footballer – to try and buy a drone as he was suspicious that police were tracking them.

He was part of a crime mob who had forged links with gangs based in Glasgow and the north east of England.

Ferguson was eventually held in June, last year, shortly after he landed back from a holiday in Thailand.

He is due to be sentenced later this month.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Ingram said after the admission: “Ferguson was identified as the leading figure in the supply chain bringing drugs into the area.

“He was arrested following an extensive investigation into his activities and we welcome his conviction.

“Police Scotland will not allow criminals and organised crime groups to profit from other people’s misery and this case is a good example of how we utilise our resources along with the expertise of partner agencies to disrupt this kind of activity.

“We know that individuals and communities are deeply affected by the drugs trade and do not tolerate the harm it brings.

“Anyone who has information or concerns about the sale and supply of drugs in their community is urged to contact Police Scotland via 101.

"Alternatively, if you’d prefer to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”