Truth about Dubai's 'gangster crackdown' and why it's not as it seems
For over a decade, Dubai has been a haven for drug traffickers, money launderers, fugitives, and sanctions-dodgers, often under the silent approval of authorities. The city's luxurious skyline and tax-free income attract many British expatriates, yet its allure has long extended to a darker crowd.
In September, the arrests of four of Scotland's most notorious gangsters in Dubai sparked optimism among Western law enforcement agencies. These men—Steven Lyons, Ross McGill, Stephen Jamieson, and Steven Larwood—are believed to be key figures in major UK and international criminal networks, tied to violent gang conflicts that have led to firebombings and shootings in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Of the four, three have been released, while Stephen Jamieson reportedly remains in custody. His potential extradition remains uncertain, though a precedent was set earlier in May when the UAE allowed the extradition of Kinahan cartel figure Sean McGovern to Ireland, a move that gave investigators renewed hope.
Experts warn that when it comes to Dubai's so-called 'gangster crackdown', the reality is more complex, with a handful of prominent figures targeted while many others continue unscathed.
Summary
Despite Dubai's show of cracking down on crime, experts stress much of the criminal underworld still thrives under its glittering surface.