Fresh Twist in SNP Finance Saga: Scottish Prosecutors Review New Police Report Amidst Long-Running Embezzlement Investigation

Scottish authorities are reviewing a new report from law enforcement concerning the financial activities of the SNP, as the extensive investigation by Police Scotland, known as Operation Branchform, continues without a resolution.

Scotland correspondent @ConnorGillies

Thursday, September 5, 2024, 18:

Scottish legal authorities are reviewing a new report submitted by police who are at the forefront of the criminal probe into the SNP's financial activities.

Since 2021, investigators have been examining the financing of the party and have earlier brought charges against former CEO Peter Murrell for alleged embezzlement.

The individual, aged 59, is married to the ex-First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

She remains a person of interest in the case, but she has maintained her innocence since being detained in 2023.

Former treasurer for the SNP, Colin Beattie, was also taken into custody and later released without being charged.

Chief Constable Jo Farrell of Police Scotland informed Sky News recently that the investigation involving Ms. Sturgeon and Mr. Beattie is still active.

It has now come to light that high-ranking officials reached out to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) in August seeking "advice and guidance" on how to proceed.

Further Discussion on Nicola Sturgeon

Operation Branchform: Peter Murrell's 'SNP Embezzlement' Case Sent by Police Scotland to Prosecutors

Chief Constable of Police Scotland announces that the investigation into SNP finances will be forwarded to prosecutors soon.

Nicola Sturgeon acknowledges facing 'an incredibly challenging period' following her husband's indictment in a financial misconduct investigation.

Associated Subjects:

Authorities in law enforcement shared an update on the significant investigation currently underway.

Stay informed about the newest developments in the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland stated: "On August 9, 2024, we submitted the current results of our investigation to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and are currently awaiting their guidance on any additional measures that need to be implemented."

The extended investigation, known as Operation Branchform, has continued for several years without reaching an end.

It is associated with the use of approximately £600,000 collected from SNP supporters, specifically set aside for promoting Scottish independence.

Discover additional details at Sky News: Regulatory body initiates investigation into Ticketmaster's handling of Oasis concert ticket sales. Harman insists police accelerate their probe into the Grenfell matter.

Stay ahead with the latest Breaking News

Download the Sky News application at no cost

After being detained in June 2023, Ms. Sturgeon stated, "What keeps me going is the absolute belief that I am innocent."

A spokesperson for the COPFS stated: "The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service has received a typical prosecution report from Police Scotland concerning a 59-year-old man, regarding alleged incidents that took place from 2016 to 2023.

"Inquiries into two associated persons, a 72-year-old man and a woman aged 53, are still in progress."

Associated Subjects

Sky News Bottom Section

Information about Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Sky Networks

Additional Sky Websites