John Swinney says Police Scotland is ready if violence spreads north

Scotland's First Minister John Swinney has said he has "deep concern" about escalating violence across the UK.

Following a meeting with faith leaders in Scotland, Mr Swinney said: "I'm very concerned - as many people are in our community - about the violence that has erupted in other parts of the United Kingdom."

However, the First Minister added that police officers in Scotland were equipped to deal with any unrest north of the border.

Officers were assessing risks in Scotland amid concerns of demonstrations across the country.

He said: "We can't demonstrate at this stage if those risks will materialise, but what we can do is prepare for such risks and I am confident that Police Scotland is working with absolute focus on making sure that should any risks of that materialise, we are able to put in place the measures to provide assurance and safety for the communities in Scotland who have a right to feel safe in our society today."

'No intelligence' on planned far-right protests

It comes after police in Glasgow moved to squash rumours of protests within the city today.

Officers said there was "no intelligence" to suggest that any far-right protests will take place.

It comes after information was shared online suggesting a march would take place in response to the recent tragedy in Southport, which saw three children murdered and many more injured.

Misinformation online about the knife attack has sparked a week of riots in towns and cities in England and now, it has also spread to Belfast.

Officers are now warning social media users to be careful about information shared online.

Writing on X, Police Scotland said: "We are aware of speculation circulating about a protest in George Square, Glasgow, today.

"There is no intelligence to suggest any protest is planned.

"Please be wary of what you read on social media, and avoid speculation and sharing information which may be inaccurate."

'Enhanced patrols and direct engagement'

Speaking after the meeting with John Swinney, Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie said: “We understand the violent disorder in other parts of the United Kingdom is causing concern and we are providing reassurance to communities across the country through enhanced patrols and direct engagement.

"We will continue to monitor the situation to ensure any potential for violence or disorder in Scotland is identified quickly and responded to immediately.

"We are aware of a number of planned protests, and counter protests, over the coming weeks, which will be policed appropriately.

"Police Scotland is a rights-based organisation, and our role is to ensure public safety while balancing the rights of protesters who wish to peacefully demonstrate. We encourage anyone with concerns or information to contact us through 101.

"We would also encourage the media and public not to share speculation or inaccurate information on social media."

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