Following her Sunday arrest in connection with an ongoing investigation into the SNP’s finances, former first minister Nicola Sturgeon declared “beyond a shadow of a doubt” that she was “innocent of any wrongdoing.”
In connection with the police inquiry that got underway in July 2021, Ms. Sturgeon was questioned by investigators for almost seven hours on Sunday before being let go at about 5.25 p.m.
She was the third prominent SNP MP to be detained in relation to alleged financial irregularities after allegations were made over two years ago.
After being released from custody pending further investigation on Sunday, the former SNP leader tweeted her “shock” and “distress” at the situation.
She said: “To find myself in the situation I did today when I am certain I have committed no offence is both a shock and deeply distressing.
“I know that this ongoing investigation is difficult for people, and I am grateful that so many continue to show faith in me and appreciate that I would never do anything to harm either the SNP or the country.”
Ms Sturgeon went on to say that she was “innocent of any wrongdoing,” adding: “Obviously, given the nature of this process, I cannot go into detail.
“However, I do wish to say this, and to do so in the strongest possible terms. Innocence is not just a presumption I am entitled to in law. I know beyond doubt that I am in fact innocent of any wrongdoing.”
Ms. Sturgeon expressed gratitude to her loved ones and close friends for providing her with “much-needed strength” at this time and said she would need a “day or two” to take in the most recent information.
The statement finished: “To the many people who have sent messages of support over these past difficult weeks – including since today’s news broke – thank you for your kindness.
“Thank you also to my close circle of family and friends who are giving me much-needed strength at this time.
“Finally, while I will take a day or two to process this latest development, I intend to be back in Parliament soon where I will continue to represent my Glasgow Southside constituents to the very best of my ability.”
In April, former SNP executives Peter Murrell and Colin Beattie MSP were detained but later released without being charged pending additional inquiry.
There was no police presence at Ms Sturgeon’s home in Uddingston on Sunday but a police vehicle occasionally drove past the house.
Scotland’s media had gathered in front of the separate house, which appeared to be deserted.
