Shocking theft: trailer carrying 90,000 Pounds Worth of whisky Stolen in Lanarkshire

Friday, 28 November 2025 at 07:03

In North Lanarkshire, an eye-catching and brazen theft took place early on a Sunday morning earlier this month. A trailer packed with premium whisky and liqueurs, worth a total of £90,000, was stolen from a secured site in the town of Shotts.

Police are mounting a full-scale search for the perpetrators and are urging witnesses to come forward.

Whisky theft around three in the morning

Reports say the trailer was removed from the premises on High Street in Shotts at around ten to three in the morning. The exact circumstances remain unclear, but it’s evident the thieves acted with precision.

The vehicle was parked inside a fenced and secured area, suggesting the perpetrators were experienced or knew exactly what to expect.

The trailer’s contents consisted of high-value whisky and various liqueurs. While police have not released specific brands, initial information indicates bottles that are highly sought-after on both the domestic and international markets. That makes the stolen load particularly attractive to organized thieves.

Whisky as a prized target

Sadly, whisky theft is nothing new in Scotland. The combination of high value, ease of resale, and the global popularity of Scotch makes shipments vulnerable to organized crime.

Trailers of spirits are often loaded late or parked temporarily, turning them into tempting targets.

This incident once again highlights how lucrative this illicit trade can be. With a value of £90,000, the haul could fetch a significant sum on the black market, especially if it includes limited editions or premium bottles.

Police seek witnesses

Police in Scotland are appealing to anyone who saw anything suspicious in or around High Street in Shotts on the night from Saturday to Sunday. Even small details could help track down the stolen trailer or identify the perpetrators.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police through the usual channels.

Want to read more about whisky thefts we’ve covered? Check out our dedicated page.