Tag: Police Scotland

Watchdog concerns over staffing levels at St Leonards custody centre

Police Scotland has been urged to review staffing levels at one of the country’s busiest police custody centres.

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS) and Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) carried out a joint inspection of the police custody centre at St Leonards Police Station, in Edinburgh.

Staff at the custody centre described it as ‘significantly understaffed’ and told inspectors that gaps in staffing levels meant the care provided to detainees was not to the standard they would like to see, or that detainees deserve.

Inspectors found that staffing pressures could compromise the completion of routine tasks including the provision of showers for detainees and time spent with them.

Local policing officers taking detainees to the custody centre said there were rarely enough custody staff available to run the three charge bars at the police station.

They said this commonly resulted in queues of arresting officers with their detainees and had a knock-on impact on operational policing as officers remained delayed at St Leonards rather than returning to frontline policing.

HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland, Craig Naylor, said: “HMICS and HIS have now jointly inspected ten police custody centres across Scotland, and during this latest inspection we identified a number of issues that we have previously highlighted elsewhere – including issues around staffing levels.

“We recently made a recommendation to Police Scotland that they examine staffing levels and make arrangements to ensure that appropriate staff resource is in place to maintain safe and effective custody centre operations.

“While we have not repeated this recommendation, it has relevance for the St Leonards custody centre.

“Consideration should be given to reviewing the rationale for the existing staffing model to ensure it remains suitable and fit for purpose.”

Inspectors said the national custody staff model which is used by Police Scotland – with one sergeant and one staff member per ten detainees – did not meet the needs of such a busy custody centre.

St Leonards has 34 cells and serves as the main police custody centre for Edinburgh, Midlothian and East Lothian.

Records show 7,157 people were held in custody at St Leonards police station during 2024-2025.[1]

Staff reported limited ability to take breaks.

They also highlighted challenges associated with sickness absence, delays in body armour provision that restricted the deployment of new members of the custody team, and with some staff being on restricted duties which meant they were unable to assist at the charge bar.

Limited management visibility was also raised by staff, with some expressing concern that Police Scotland was not responding effectively to pressures within the custody environment.

HMICS and HIS inspectors visited the St Leonards custody centre in September last year, as part of their review to assess the treatment of, and conditions for, any individuals being detained.

The joint review found child detainees who were brought to St Leonards custody centre were managed appropriately, with none placed in cells and the longest detention period under five hours.

Inspectors said this was a significant improvement from previous inspections.

However, the inspection found there were issues around the recording of information on the National Custody System, including details relating to wellbeing observations of detainees, their meals, healthcare interactions, care planning and legal rights.

Care plans and handovers were found to routinely lack case-specific details, while records frequently relied on ‘generic, copy-and-paste entries’ which diminished their value.

The inspection team said the physical condition of the custody cells at St Leonards was good, but they identified safety and operational concerns related to the recent addition of a new detainee holding room opposite the charge bar area.

The report said the narrow layout often resulted in congestion when accommodating multiple detainees and their escorting officers.

Inspectors stated: “Staff described incidents since the opening of this facility in which disorderly or incapacitated detainees obstructed exit routes, leading to unwanted physical contact and, on one occasion, a physical assault on a member of staff who was rendering assistance.”

Inspectors also found that while the recently upgraded charge bar facilities were bright and spacious, the layout resulted in limited confidentially during detainee processing, with conversations audible to others.

The joint custody report made 10 recommendations for improvement, including a number of healthcare-specific recommendations addressing infection prevention and control, training and the management of medicines.

The recommendations were directed at both Police Scotland and NHS Lothian who provides healthcare services in the custody centre.

[1] The number of arrested persons includes individuals who have appeared in custody on more than one occasion within the reporting period.

Report: https://hmics.scot/publications/custody-inspection-report-edinburgh/hm-inspectorate-of-constabulary-in-scotland/#content

Man jailed for murder of Ndata Bobb in Edinburgh

A 56-year-old man has been jailed following the murder of a woman in Restalrig. Momodou Bobb was given a life sentence, with a minimum of 16 years and eight months, at the High Court in Edinburgh today (Tuesday, 19 May, 2026), following the death of Ndata Bobb.

Around 1am on Thursday, 28 August, 2025, officers were called to a report of a disturbance at a property on Restalrig Avenue in the city.

Emergency services attended and a 43-year-old woman was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment, where she died a short time later.

Detective Inspector Kevin Tait said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Ndata at this extremely difficult time.

“This was a heartbreaking and senseless crime that took the life of a much-loved woman and devoted mother.

“We remain committed to bringing those who commit such violent acts to justice.”

Chief Inspector Kieran Dougal said: “We understand that such a tragic incident has had a profound effect on Ndata’s family and friends, and it is important we continue to provide support at this difficult time.

“Our community advisors and community representatives helped shape our response during and after this incident, providing invaluable insight into Gambian culture and helping us to understand their needs.

“Crimes of this nature can also impact the wider public and we extensively engage and work directly with communities to address any concerns and provide reassurance.

“We are committed to continuing to strengthen our positive relationships with African communities in Edinburgh and ensuring that all the people we serve have trust and confidence in policing and feel able to speak to us, whether it is to report a crime or share information.”

Appeal after driver failed to stop on A720 Edinburgh city bypass

POLICE are appealing for information after the driver of a van failed to stop after colliding with a man standing on the verge off the A720 Edinburgh city bypass near the Sheriffhall roundabout.

The incident happened around 3pm yesterday (Sunday, 17 May), following a minor crash at the roundabout.

The occupants were exchanging details when a white van collided with the 29-year-old man at the side of the eastbound carriageway. He sustained an arm injury but did not require hospital treatment.

The driver of the vehicle, described as a Citroen Relay style van, did not stop and enquiries are ongoing to trace them.

Constable Stewart Logan said: “Our enquiries are ongoing to find the driver of this vehicle and we are asking anyone who saw the incident to get in touch.

“If you were driving in the area around this time please also check any dash-cam you have to see if it has captured what happened.

“I am also appealing to the driver to get in touch.”

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1833 of Sunday, 17 May, 2026.

SPFL Statement on Celtic vs Hearts league title decider

THE SPFL HAS ISSUED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT:

“Firstly, we send our congratulations to Celtic on winning the William Hill Premiership in the most exciting of circumstances and our commiserations to everyone at Heart of Midlothian following an incredible campaign.

“We would also like to thank the referee and his excellent team of match officials for their cool heads on such a dramatic day. Given the speculation about the conclusion of the game, we would like to make clear that, prior to awarding the trophy, we were informed by the match referee that the match had ended and had not been abandoned.

“Yesterday’s match showed off the very best of the Scottish game and the drama and excitement that it is rightly famed for. The eyes of the world were on Glasgow and the climax of the William Hill Premiership, with millions of viewers watching the match on Sky Sports and across the globe.

“However, we utterly condemn the scenes which saw a number of Celtic supporters encroach onto the field of play. We await the report of our match delegate regarding any specific incidents that took place but, regardless, supporters entering the field of play in any circumstances is wholly unacceptable and puts those participating and working at a match at risk.

We note that entering the pitch in England and Wales has been a criminal offence since 1991.

“We urge anyone with information about any alleged criminal activity to contact Police Scotland.”

Two officers seriously injured and 14 arrests made following disorder in Glasgow

Fourteen people were arrested in Glasgow during and after Celtic’s Premiership title win on Saturday, 16 May, 2026.

Four arrests were made at Parkhead stadium during the match and 10 in the Trongate area of the city. They relate to a number of offences including mobbing and rioting, resisting arrest, police assault and possession of offensive weapons. Officers also seized pyrotechnics and alcohol at both locations.

During the violence that followed, two officers were seriously injured and three members of the public required hospital treatment.

Significant work remains ongoing around the disorder and officers will be reviewing CCTV and capturing statements to identify those responsible.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland said: “The large majority of people at the Trongate yesterday were in a celebratory mood and simply wanted to support the victory of their team.

“However, we once again saw significant disorder and anti-social behaviour when police responded to a medical emergency within the crowd. A man was found unresponsive after taking unwell and continues to receive treatment in hospital. While dealing with this, our officers came under sustained attack from missiles and bottles, which resulted in two of them being seriously injured.

“I cannot condemn this behaviour strongly enough. It is completely unacceptable.

“Our officers must be kept safe when doing their job. They acted bravely, courageously and with the highest degree of professionalism throughout the event. They took decisive action, which was entirely appropriate, to clear those intent on violence and disorder, and make arrests.

“The minority of individuals involved will face the most robust action from Police Scotland and partners as we move forward. If you were involved in criminality, expect us to be knocking at your door.

“Once again, Police Scotland has been left holding the responsibility and accountability for supporters away from the stadium at the Trongate.

“We have strong and positive relationships with Celtic Football Club and Glasgow City Council on a day-to-day basis to keep people safe, but on this particular issue more must be done.

“Celtic FC and football authorities, working with local authorities and Police Scotland, must take greater responsibility. This cannot happen again at any future celebrations.”

We are also carrying out enquiries and reviewing CCTV footage from Parkhead stadium in Glasgow following the pitch invasion and disorder that followed. We continue to engage with Hearts of Midlothian FC to establish if any of their players were assaulted on the pitch.

The Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has been set up to encourage members of the public to submit information directly to officers.

We would appeal to anyone with footage or photos of criminality from Parkhead or around the Trongate area to upload it using the online form here: 

https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT26X10-PO1

Information can also be passed to Police Scotland via 101 quoting Operation Gristaline. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.

Four further arrests were also made in the vicinity of Tynecastle Stadium in Edinburgh on Saturday, 16 May, 2026 in connection with breach of the peace, and assault and robbery offences.

QR code for MIPP link

QR code alternative for the MIPP.

Police Scotland statement following disorder in Trongate area of Glasgow

Police Scotland officers dealt with unacceptable violence and hostility as fans gathered in Glasgow on Saturday, 16 May, to celebrate Celtic’s Premiership title win.

Around 3000 people made their way to the Trongate area of the city following the match, where we faced significant levels of disorder in which officers were injured. Missiles, including glass bottles, were thrown at them when assisting with a medical emergency.

Specially trained public order officers were deployed and action was taken to restore order, disperse the crowd and make arrests.

Extensive enquiries are underway to identify others involved and further arrests will be made.

A significant amount of alcohol and pyrotechnics were also proactively seized by officers across the day.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland said: “While we recognise that the majority of fans respected the appeal from police and partners to act responsibly, several thousand still descended on the Trongate area, some of whom engaged in serious disorder.

“Once again, we have seen unacceptable levels of violence and anti-social behaviour and Police Scotland’s officers have been left to deal with the consequences. Being assaulted is not part of the job and regrettably a number of them were injured.

“The levels of criminal behaviour witnessed, in particular the hostility directed towards our officers, is simply unacceptable and cannot be tolerated. Those involved should be in no doubt that they will be identified and arrested.

“This mass assembly of people caused significant disruption to local businesses, residents and members of the public in the City Centre.

“Urgent discussions with Celtic, wider Scottish football authorities and other stakeholders, including Glasgow City Council, is required to achieve a solution that improves public safety, reduces disruption and prevents this from happening again.”

Police are engaging with Heart of Midlothian FC to establish if any of their players were assaulted on the pitch at the conclusion of the event. The circumstances of the incident are being reviewed.

Police Scotland: Herbert Protocol survey

We’re seeking your views on the proposed digitalisation of information that helps trace missing people living with dementia.

As part of the Herbert Protocol, families/carers can obtain, print and complete a pro-forma document from the Police Scotland website that is handed to investigating officers whenever someone with dementia goes missing.

The form records a range of useful information which will allow police to respond swiftly during the crucial first hour – rather than spend it gathering information.

At present, families and carers are responsible for owning, updating and providing this document to police.

Read more about the Herbert Protocol and get the link to our consultation survey here:

https://orlo.uk/2t4dd

Police appeal for witnesses after woman robbed of car

POLICE are appealing for information after a woman was robbed of her car in Edinburgh yesterday (Tuesday, 12 May, 2026).

Around 3.20pm, the 22-year-old woman was parking her white Peugeot 208 at the rear of the Scotmid store at Morvenside Close, Wester Hailes. As she was sitting in her car, a man approached, threatened her with a knife and demanded her keys.

A member of the public came to assist the woman as she got out the car. The suspect managed to enter the car and another man who had been standing nearby got into the passenger side. They drove off.

The two suspects are described as white and of gaunt appearance. One was aged 30-40 years with a scruffy blonde beard. He was wearing a black tracksuit and baseball cap. The second man was wearing a navy tracksuit and a black balaclava.

Detective Inspector Robert Wallace said: “This was a very frightening experience for this woman who was simply trying to go to the shops when she was targeted. Thankfully, she was uninjured.

“We are continuing significant enquiries to trace the two men responsible. This includes gathering and viewing CCTV footage from in and around the area.

“This is a busy area and I am confident that there were people nearby who haven’t yet spoken to police. I urge them to please get in touch.

“I also ask anyone with personal footage or dash-cam to review their footage and come forward if it holds anything relevant.”

Information should be passed to Police Scotland through 101 quoting incident number 2051 of Tuesday, 12 May, 2026.

CCTV appeal following disorder at Scottish Cup quarter final

Officers investigating disorder at the Scottish Cup Quarter Final have released CCTV images of 24 people they believe may be able to assist with their ongoing enquiries.

The match between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow, took place on Sunday, 8 March, 2026.

Those depicted or anyone who believes they may recognise them are asked to contact police, quoting incident number 0899 of 8 March, 2026.

Anyone with information can call 101 or can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Information can also be sent directly to the investigation team.

The Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) is a website that gives the public access to a form to pass information, images and footage directly to the Major Investigation Team and can be accessed here: 

https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT26G03-PO1

Five further arrests after disorder at Scottish Cup quarter-final

POLICE investigating disorder at the Scottish Cup Quarter Final between Rangers and Celtic on Sunday, 8 March, 2026, have made five further arrests.

Four men, two aged 18, and others aged 26, and 46, along with a 17-year-old male youth, were arrested and charged in connection with culpable and reckless conduct. One of the 18-year-olds was also charged with threatening and abusive behaviour.

They are due to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court at a later date.

This brings the total number of arrests in connection with the disorder to 26.

Police appeal for information following crash on the A720

Police are appealing for information following a serious crash on the A720 city bypass, Edinburgh. Around 1.10pm on Thursday, 7 May, 2026, we received a report of a crash involving a red, white and blue Honda CBR 1000RR motorcycle near the Hermiston Junction.

Emergency services attended and the 30-year-old male rider was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment.

The road was closed to allow enquiries to be carried out and reopened around 2.30pm.

Constable Josh Allan said: “Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of this crash.

“I am appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash and who hasn’t already spoken to officers to contact us.

“I would also ask anyone who was in the area and saw the motorcycle prior to the crash or who may have dash cam footage which could assist to get in touch.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 1652 of Thursday, 7 May, 2026.