COPS working on Operation Branchform – the probe into SNP finances – are expected to submit a report to prosecutors within weeks, we can reveal.
The significant step in the long-running investigation emerged as Scotland’s top cop gave her first major interview since taking office in October.
Chief Constable Jo Farrell would not be drawn on the details of the probe that saw former SNP chief Peter Murrell last month charged with embezzlement.
But she confirmed officers will soon pass to the Crown Office their findings into a probe centred around a £600,000 indy campaign donation to the Nats.
It will then be up to prosecutors to decide if court proceedings should follow.
Ms Farrell said: “We expect a report will be submitted within the next few weeks.”
It’s understood the force will deliver a “standard prosecution report” in relation to Mr Murrell, while investigations into his wife former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, 53, and ex-Nats treasurer Colin Beattie continue.
Details of the imminent move come weeks after Mr Murrell, 59, quit the SNP with an embezzlement charge hanging over his head.
We told how he had earlier been arrested by cops for a second time and quizzed for more than nine hours.
He attended a police station by appointment last month after leaving his home in Uddingston, Glasgow, just after 8am.
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He was then arrested at 9.13am then charged at 6.35pm and released.
The bombshell came a year after he and Mr Beattie were both arrested, grilled by detectives and then released without charge – as was Ms Sturgeon on June 11 last year.
Police raided the couple’s home last April, with a forensics tent pitched in front and officers seen carrying out boxes of evidence.
Operation Branchform was launched in July 2021 after allegations were made about £600,000 of donations made to the party.
Ms Sturgeon previously said of her husband’s embezzlement charge – “It’s incredibly difficult.”
The ex-First Minister spoke outside the couple’s Glasgow home as her successor Humza Yousaf also told of his “shock” at last month’s development.
After appealing for privacy, Ms Sturgeon, who denies all wrongdoing, said: “I can’t say any more. I’m not going to say any more.”
Scottish Tory chairman Craig Hoy said: “This is a very serious and complex case, which appears to be nearing its conclusion.
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“It’s essential that all figures within the SNP cooperate fully with the police to enable them to complete the investigation into the party’s finances.”
An SNP spokesperson said: “It is not appropriate to comment on a live police investigation.”
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
