THREE men have been charged in connection with money laundering and online fraud worth around £400,000.
They were arrested after searches at properties in the Aberdeen, Manchester and Milton Keynes areas on Monday.
The operation involved officers from Police Scotland's specialist crime division supported by the north east division, Greater Manchester Police, Thames Valley Police and Immigration Enforcement.
Police said two men from Aberdeen aged 36 and 39 and a 40-year-old man from Manchester have been charged.
They are expected to appear at Aberdeen Sheriff Court in due course.
Inquiries are continuing and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.
Police Scotland Detective Inspector Iain McPhail said: "I would urge people to always be on your guard when you are contacted by email or by telephone by someone claiming to be from your bank, supplier of goods to your business or indeed any other company such as an electricity supplier, and especially if the call involves transferring money, providing or confirming your bank details.
"I cannot emphasise enough, if you have the slightest doubt, attend your bank in person or highlight it to other members of your business. Do not provide your details over the telephone or the computer.
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