Police Scotland has received 108 complaints against former NHS neurosurgeon Sam Eljamel, who is accused of harming more than 170 patients during his time at NHS Tayside.
The disgraced surgeon, who led the neurosurgery department in Dundee for 18 years, is now the focus of a criminal investigation.
Authorities estimate it could take up to two years to determine whether he will face prosecution, but there is sufficient evidence to move forward.
The development follows a meeting earlier this week between Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain and Jules Rose, a leading campaigner for Eljamel’s former patients.
Reports indicate that the Lord Advocate confirmed there is enough evidence to proceed with legal action.
Eljamel worked at NHS Tayside from 1995 to 2013, performing over 4,000 surgeries before being suspended. In September 2023, the Scottish government announced an independent public inquiry into his misconduct.
The Patients’ Action Group for the Eljamel Public Inquiry estimates that at least 172 individuals suffered harm under his care.
A spokesperson for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with Police Scotland as they gather further evidence from complainants and NHS Tayside.