Dive and marine officers to patrol River Clyde during COP26
They'll also be carrying out venue searches along the river in the run up to the climate conference.
Last updated 27th Sep 2021
Dive and marine officers will be going up and down the River Clyde during COP26 in Glasgow in November to keep the conference safe.
They'll be patrolling the water in speed boats in order to respond to any incidents or threats quickly.
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Superintendent Stevie Irvine, Police Scotland Maritime Security lead for COP26, said: "Our specially trained divers will patrol and search the River Clyde, particularly restricted areas, in the run up to COP26.
“This is a historic event, with one of the biggest mobilisation of police assets the UK has ever seen, and that means some restrictions are needed to help keep participants, visitors and members of the public safe.
“Any protest activity in or around the waterways during COP26 will be met with a proportionate policing response which balances the needs and rights of those wishing to take part, against the safety and wellbeing of protesters.
“This is all part of our work to support the delivery of a safe and secure event and we would ask that if you spot anything unusual in or around the waterways – report it to the police.
“Trust your instincts if you see something that doesn’t seem right.”
Officers from the Ministry of Defence will be supporting Police Scotland with a 24/7 armed presence.
There will also be restrictions on movement and mooring on the water during the climate conference.
Superintendent Sandy Stewart, Ministry of Defence Police, said: "Our patrols are primarily security orientated for the event and should anything happen then we will police that in the normal way."