Did Scotland have a Police Contingent fighting overseas?

[shonamoloney]

James Robertson was born abt. 1831 Coupar Angus, Perthshire. He married Agnes Millar on 15 Jan. 1850. In the 1851 census his occupation is Tailor/Journeyman living with his wife Agnes Millar in Coupar Angus.
His daughter, Catharine Miller Robertson is born on 15 october, 1851 at Coupar Angus. In the 1861 census she is not living with her mother or father but living with her grandperants in Carnoustie David and Mary Millar.
No trace of James Robertson can be found after 1851 - the family story is that he joined a police contingent and died overseas fighting Indians or Mexicans?
I can't find anything about such a force anywhere during this period.
Was there such a thing as a police contingent fighting overseas from either Angus or Scotland between 1851- and 1861?
Hoping someone can help me.
Shona

[Hibee]

Hi Shona

Welcome to TalkingScot!

Not sure about a Mexican connection. Apart from a sizeable number of Scots at the Alamo, we seem to have avoided conflict with that particular nation.

Now then, by "Indians" do you mean native Americans, or those from the sub-continent? If the latter, there was usually a minor war going on. In the decade you specify, there was the second Anglo-Burmese War. There would most probably be a number of Scots officers in charge of local police units, and these may well have been caught up in any conflict.

Regards
Hibee

[shonamoloney]

Thanks Hibee
The only information I have is that the limited info from the family story told to me by my grandfather. So don't know what kind of Indians/Mexicans?
Thank you I will research the info you have given me - might give me a lead.
It really is my brick wall.
Regards
Shona