Police Scotland says there is “no intelligence” to suggest there are plans for a “far-right” rally in Glasgow after speculation online prompted some offices and businesses to close.
Posts shared on social media suggested there were plans for a protest in George Square on Wednesday.
Audit Scotland, Scotland’s public spending watchdog, closed its offices in the city centre and instructed staff to work from home.
Police Scotland issued a statement to quash the rumours and assure the public that the force did not believe any such action would be taking place.
Police urged members of the public to be “wary” of social media reports and to avoid speculation.
It comes after scenes of mass disorder across England, Wales and Northern Ireland over the last week.
The violence in other parts of the UK, which has seen racially-motivated assaults on people and businesses, has caused concern across the country.
Police forces in England said they remained braced for planned unrest by “hateful and divisive groups” as they monitor reports of at least 30 possible gatherings and threats against immigration law specialists on Wednesday.
While Scotland’s police force said it did not expect such incidents north of the border, it recognised the fear communities may be feeling.
Assistant chief constable Gary Ritchie said: “We are providing reassurance to communities across the country through enhanced patrols and direct engagement.
“We will continue to monitor the situation to ensure any potential for violence or disorder in Scotland is identified quickly and responded to immediately.”
Audit Scotland said it had taken to decision to close its Glasgow office with immediate effect “for safety reasons” after rumours and online reporting suggested of “potential far right activity”.
“Events in England over the past week suggest that if such demonstrations do take place today, there would be a real risk of civil unrest,” a spokesperson said.
“The safety of our staff and of any visitors to our workplaces is our priority.”
ACC Ritchie said the force was aware of a “number” of planned protests, and counter protests, over the coming weeks – but not on Wednesday.
He said these gatherings would be “policed appropriately”.
“Police Scotland is a rights-based organisation, and our role is to ensure public safety while balancing the rights of protesters who wish to peacefully demonstrate. We encourage anyone with concerns or information to contact us through 101,” he said.
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