Skip to main content
SNP embezzlement probe to be with prosecutors within weeks
Scottish bank notes, April 9, 2018

PROSECUTORS will have a police report on SNP embezzlement probe “in a matter of weeks,” according to Scotland’s top police officer.

Police Scotland’s investigations into allegations of misappropriation of £600,000 raised for independence campaigning — known as Operation Branchform — have been running for three years, resulting in the arrests of former party treasurer Colin Beattie, former party chief executive Paul Murrell, and his wife and former first minister Nicola Sturgeon.

All three were released without charge last year, but just weeks ago — facing mounting pressure to close the case or take action — Police Scotland rearrested Mr Murrell, charging him with embezzlement-related offences.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Nicola Sturgeon with Peter Murrell as they cast their votes in the 2019 General Election at Broomhouse Park Community Hall in Glasgow
Opinion / 1 June 2026
1 June 2026

KENNY MacASKILL looks at the depth of the corruption tolerated within the Scottish National Party and the efforts to keep it from public scrutiny

Police Scotland officers
Scotland / 30 November 2025
30 November 2025