Police Investigating Hoax Call To Coastguard

Police are investigating a call made to the Coastguard last week, suggesting that a member of the public was in the sea in Banff.

As a result of the call on Friday June 26, the Coastguard sent out their search and rescue teams to try and find the individual.

After a number of hours, it was determind that the call was a hoax, and it was reported to Police Scotland.

Enquiries are ongoing and Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Sergeant Barry Riddoch, based at Banff, said: "Hoax calls divert the emergency services from genuine emergencies and any unnecessary delay in attending genuine emergencies could easily mean the difference between life and death. Individuals who are found to commit these offences will be dealt with robustly."

A Coastguard spokeswoman said: "Not only do these calls take resources away from where they are needed and endanger the public, they put the lives of rescue teams in danger. We fully support Police Scotland's efforts and will assist in the prosecution of those responsible."