A MAJOR 'pre-planned' police operation is underway at a former Greenock care home this morning.

Several teams of officers - both in plain clothes and uniform - have surrounded the Mariners' building, which has lain empty for around three years.

Police dogs and a drone have been pressed into action as part of what one eyewitness said looks like 'a really organised and well orchestrated operation'.

Several unmarked police vehicles are at the scene, as well as at least five marked vans.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "Officers are carrying out a pre-planned operation at a premises on Newark Street in Greenock.

"There is no risk to the wider public."

Greenock Telegraph:

An eyewitness told the Telegraph: "We noticed them [the police] about half-an-hour ago.

"I've never seen so many police in one place at one time - it's like something from an action movie.

"There was a lot of activity at first but now they just seem to be staying put outside the building.

"I wouldn't be surprised if something is going on in there because the home has been sitting empty for so long."

A number of officers are currently stationed within the grounds of the building.

The facility operated as Sir Gabriel Wood’s Mariners’ Home for almost 170 years before its closure in 2021.