Police called to break up more than 3000 house parties

Police have been called to break up hundreds of house parties every week despite a ban on households meeting indoors.

Figures obtained by BBC Scotland through a freedom of information request show that between August 28 and October 14 officers were called out to 3052 illegal gatherings.

It was reported a third of the incidents happened after the ban on indoor visits, which had been in place in large parts of central Scotland, was extended nationwide on September 23.

There have been 83 arrests and more than 420 fines have been issued.
Police were granted powers to break up large house parties being held in breach of coronavirus restrictions on August 28.

Deputy chief constable Malcolm Graham said: “Despite overwhelming levels of co-operation and support from communities across Scotland, a small minority of people continue to host or participate in house parties and gatherings.

“These are not confined to certain age groups and people should not be in any doubt that house gatherings allow coronavirus to spread. Where we encounter wilful, repeated, persistent or flagrant breaches we will, as the public would expect and support, act decisively to enforce the law.

“The chief constable has made it clear that we are asking people to take personal responsibility to do the right thing and remember the purpose of these measures is to aid the collective effort to stay safe, protect others and save lives by preventing the virus from spreading.

“Recent figures highlighted public confidence in Police Scotland has risen by around 20% because of the way our officers and staff have carried out their duties with common sense and courtesy during the pandemic.

“Assaults on police officers and staff carrying out their duties during this challenging time are disgraceful and will not be tolerated as we remain committed to improving and ensuring their safety.”

Under current restrictions people cannot meet those from another household in indoor settings across Scotland unless they are part of an “extended household”, available to people who live alone or only with children under 18.

People can meet outdoors in groups of up to six, not including children under 12, from no more than two households.