Glasgow City Council urges public not to spread misinformation amid protests

Glasgow City Council has urged members of the public not to spread misinformation and disinformation on social media.

The city has been awash with protests following a number of incidents, including the alleged rape of a 16-year-old girl earlier this month.

During one demonstration in the Gorbals, a Glasgow dad was falsely accused of filming children. A video was then shared on social media by Tommy Robinson, labelling him an “invader”.

Police Scotland described the information being circulated on social media as “completely inaccurate”.

In a statement posted on social media, on behalf of councillors Susan Aitken, Rashid Hussein, Jon Molyneux, Martha Wardrop, and John Daly, the local authority described the city as being “built on compassion, respect, and community spirit.”

It read: “Everyone has the right to feel safe in their home and neighbourhood, and we strongly condemn any behaviour that threatens individuals, families, or public safety.

“We are also concerned by the spread of misinformation and disinformation online. It is natural to be concerned or unsure about situations when people have set out to confuse or even lie to us and our communities – and false and unverified information can quickly fuel fear, increase tensions, and cause real harm to innocent people. We can all play a part in pushing back against misinformation by looking critically at what we see online and verifying information through trusted sources before sharing it.”

The local authority said it acknowledges that recent events have caused “anxiety and distress” in the community.

The statement also adds that they will continue to “support the work Police Scotland has been doing to respond”.

“Glasgow City Council will continue to work closely with Police Scotland, community organisations, and local partners to support those affected, provide reassurance, and promote community cohesion,” it read.

“Glasgow is at its best when we stand together. We ask everyone to remain calm, reject misinformation, treat one another with respect, and help ensure our city remains safe, welcoming, and inclusive for all.”