A WOMAN has been arrested in connection with a probe into a former funeral directors, which had a premises near Helensburgh.

The remains of eight individuals were passed back to Argyll and Bute Council's care at Cardross Crematorium earlier this year after Police Scotland began investing A. Milne Funeral Directors. 

The firm had a base in Dumbarton, which closed last year, and one in Springburn, Glasgow, which police finished searching in May.

Officers executed search warrants at residential properties in Springburn and Bishopbriggs on Monday, July 22. 

Police confirmed a 55-year-old woman has been arrested in connection with the investigation.

She was released pending further enquiries. 

Several items, relevant to the investigation, were also seized. 

It is understood that enquiries remain ongoing. 

Detective Sergeant Kieran Bewick said: “This is a very complex investigation which has had a big impact on those families affected.

“I would like to thank the public for their assistance so far. Our enquiries into this sensitive and emotive case remain ongoing and I would encourage anyone with any information on this case to contact us."

Anyone wishing to get in touch with officers is asked to contact 101, quoting incident  reference 1289 of May 2, 2024, or use the dedicated email address at  Operationkoine@scotland.police.uk.

Helensburgh and Lomond's constituency MSP, Jackie Baillie, said: “This has been a difficult time for the families who were affected by the alleged actions of this funeral director.

“In some cases families were given the wrong ashes and, for others, funeral plans have been paid for which are not worth the paper they are written on.

“I am pleased that the police are making progress with their inquiries and I would encourage anyone with information to come forward.”