'I think this is a great idea - can't understand why so many people are against it!'
Public respond to launch of new police portal for reporting Covid rule-breakers
Last updated 3rd Jan 2021
Police Scotland's launched a new online form encouraging the public to report Covid rule-breakers.
It's designed to ease pressure on 999 control rooms, following reports of a high volume of calls about the pandemic since the outbreak began.
And can be used to report illegal gatherings or the non-wearing of face masks indoors.
A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “Our online reporting form for reporting Covid-19 breaches is now live.
“Make sure you understand the rules around gatherings for your area, via the Scottish Government, before you get in touch with us.
“This form is not for emergency reporting. If there is an emergency please call 999.
“Don’t call 101 or 999 for guidance on Covid-19 restrictions. Misuse of 101 and 999 could cost lives.”
Chief Superintendent Roddy Newbigging added: "An online form is already available to allow the public to report lower level complaints and help ease demand on our 101 and 999 services. A separate form has now been introduced which people can use to report ongoing breaches of coronavirus regulations in Scotland."
The new form has received a mixed response from the public on Police Scotland's official Twitter account.
One poster said: "What a sad day for our nation and policing that we are proactively encouraging society to report the heinous crime of meeting up with family or friends."
Another added: "So much effort being put into the isolation of people, so little done about the devastation of mental health and the financial ruin of so many. Easy for police and politicians not financially effected, but not for the self employed or min wage workers struggling on 80% of salary."
But another replied: "I think this is a great idea - can't understand why so many people are against it! It's not about turning against your neighbours but making sure they stick to the rules that we all need to follow in order to stop the spread of the virus."
Others agreed. One said: "I would have thought that given the fact we are in the middle if a global pandemic, this is exactly about looking after our neighbours, not turning them against each other."
Another added: "Wish we had this during the first wave. Couldn’t believe the parties folk were throwing."
Someone with a tractor as their profile picture questioned the force's priorities. They said: "Police Scotland can’t even investigate a quad bike theft! It took them a week to come and get any evidence from us and take prints and DNA."
Showing a sense of humour, another replied: "Should have told them six folk were having a party in your barn - they would all turn up in minutes."
Meanwhile, a Scottish Government cabinet meeting is set to take place on Monday morning to discuss further Covid restrictions following a spike in the number of cases being reported over the Chrismas holidays.
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