A BIRMINGHAM man has been banned from entering East Lothian for “an indefinite period”.

Kaine Jones was made subject of an anti-social behaviour order (ASBO) at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, which prohibits him from entering the county.

It was alleged that Mr Jones had a significant involvement with an organised crime group involved in the supply of illegal drugs in the area.

It was also alleged that Mr Jones, 21, was linked to acts of violence and intimidation, including the use of weapons.

Detective Sergeant Cameron Walker, from Musselburgh's Community Investigation Unit, said: "I have no doubt that Jones moved here from the Birmingham area, having no previous links to East Lothian, with the intention of committing criminality.

"In an example of 'county lines' drug dealing, he took advantage of vulnerable individuals in order to supply crack cocaine both locally and further afield by using a base outwith his original area of residence.

"We hope that this ASBO sends a message that East Lothian is, and will remain, a hostile place for those intent on causing our communities harm and profiting from the exploitation of others.

“The public play a vital role in helping us tackling this sort of criminality and anyone with information or concerns about such behaviour is urged to report this to Police Scotland on 101 or to the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

A spokeswoman for East Lothian Council was pleased to see the order in place.

She said: “East Lothian Council will work in close partnership with Police Scotland in using the anti-social behaviour legislation to bring relief to the communities of East Lothian, including those most vulnerable to intimidation and exploitation.

“Both agencies are committed to making East Lothian an even safer place to reside and visit.

“The granting of this order reflects the strength of that commitment.”