One of Scotland's most prominent gangland figures has been arrested during an early morning police operation in Glasgow. Steven "Bonzo" Daniel, 46, was taken into custody at about 06:00 at his home in Robroyston, in the north of the city. Daniel is understood to lead the Daniel crime family, which has been involved in a long-running violent feud with the rival Lyons family spanning 25 years. Police arrested him in connection with serious and organised crime, firearms and drugs offences. The arrest was part of Operation Venetic, a major UK-wide operation targeting organised crime groups. Early morning police raidBBC Scotland News accompanied officers during the operation, which began shortly before sunrise. Dozens of officers were briefed at a nearby police station before travelling in convoy to Daniel's home. Two uniformed officers first approached the property and spoke to Daniel through a first-floor window. An officer accompanied by a police dog then moved towards the house. Daniel left the property through the front door moments later and was taken into the rear of a police van. A second man, 39-year-old Steven Gordon, was arrested at the same time in Garthamlock, less than four miles from Daniel's home. Gordon was arrested in connection with serious and organised crime, firearms and drugs offences, as well as conspiracy to murder. Police pledge further actionAssistant Chief Constable Dave Ferry said the operation demonstrated police commitment to tackling serious and organised crime. He said the chief constable had made clear that people involved in such criminal activity would be brought to justice. "This enforcement action underlines that commitment," Ferry said. He added that police would continue using "every tool and tactic available" to pursue those involved in serious criminality and seeking to profit from harm caused to Scottish communities. More than 60 arrests since 2020The Scottish arm of Operation Venetic has led to more than 60 arrests since 2020. The operation began after the National Crime Agency penetrated a secret communications system used by criminals. Daniel was previously seriously injured in May 2017 when he suffered severe facial wounds after being attacked following a 100mph car chase through Glasgow. Join the discussion? 26 August 2026
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