Police Scotland investigating more than 70 complaints of 'missing ashes and fraud' against ex-funeral directors

Police Scotland has received complaints from more than 70 people as investigations continue into the alleged mismanagement of human remains and funds at a former funeral firm.

Operation Koine was launched in April 2024 into A Milne Independent Funeral Directors in response to allegations of missing ashes and funeral plan fraud.

The company had an office in Glasgow and another in Dumbarton, West Dunbartonshire.

Two women, aged 37 and 55, and a 56-year-old man were arrested in connection with the probe last year and were released pending further inquiries.

Detective Superintendent Robert Bowie told Sky News that a dedicated team has been working through "hundreds of lines of inquiries".

He said: "So far, we have identified in excess of 70 separate reports, all relating to the mishandling of cremated remains and fraudulent prepaid funeral plans.

"I firmly believe that there's other people out there who have not come forward as yet - and my appeal is for anyone who has any information, who has any concerns relating to this former funeral director, to please come forward."

Det Supt Bowie described the operation as an "unprecedented investigation for Police Scotland and one of the largest ongoing financial inquiries".

Support is being provided by the force's financial investigation unit.

Det Supt Bowie said the team has been liaising with colleagues across the UK who have investigated similar alleged crimes.

He said: "We're seeking advice and guidance from partners and other UK forces.

"We are looking to implement, or we have already implemented, that learning and good practice into our own investigation."

Det Supt Bowie said the "vast majority" of cremated remains recovered from A Milne's two branches during the investigation have been returned to families, but a "small amount" remain unclaimed.

He added: "At this moment in time, we have not received any other reports of any other concerns regarding any other funeral firms within Scotland."

Victim Support Scotland is working closely with Police Scotland to explore a package of support for anyone potentially affected.

A helpline is available on 0800 160 1985, with a webchat service at victimsupport.scot.

Debbie Adams, director of development and external affairs at Victim Support Scotland, told Sky News: "It's the uncertainty at the moment.

"People are going to be hearing about this out of the blue and it's the uncertainty of not knowing what's happened to the remains of their loved ones."

Ms Adams said the additional "financial uncertainty" surrounding potential funeral plan fraud has been "really, really, highly traumatic for people".

Those who believe they have been affected are being urged to come forward and receive the emotional support and practical help on offer.

Ms Adams added: "There's no guessing how people are going to feel, but we will know that this uncertain time is particularly traumatic."

(c) Sky News 2025: Police Scotland investigating more than 70 complaints of 'missing ashes and frau