FOUR houses were targeted by almost 100 police officers during a huge early morning drugs and organised crime sting in Greenock.

The large-scale swoop took place in Oxford Road, Larkfield, at the crack of dawn yesterday.

Over 90 officers from the local police division, including uniform and CID personnel, were involved in the major operation, led by specialist Police Scotland teams from outwith the district.

The force's air unit was also deployed, using specialist night-vision drones to survey the scene and assist frontline staff on the ground.

Police vans blocked the entrance to the street from the Auchmead Road end and shut off the area to pedestrians and traffic during the raids.

The street was awash with riot vans and several marked and unmarked squad cars.

The dramatic scenes unfolded in front of stunned residents shortly before 8am.

A force spokesperson said: "Police Scotland can confirm that four houses were searched in the Larkfield area of Greenock in an operation aimed at tackling reported drug dealing and organised crime in the local area.

"The searches, involving more than 90 officers, were conducted by local CID and uniformed officers with support from national specialist resources to achieve safe entry and reassure local residents that strong action will be taken to disrupt serious and organised crime in our communities. "Additional patrols will continue in the area to provide a visible police presence and reinforce our commitment to addressing local policing priorities."

Chief Inspector Debbie Reilly, area commander for Inverclyde, says the major operation is a signal of intent.

She said: "This operation is to reassure local residents that strong action will be taken to disrupt serious organised crime in our communities."

As the Tele went to press Police Scotland was still to release details of any recoveries made during the raid and confirm if anyone has been charged with any offences.