Nicola Sturgeon has released a statement following her arrest earlier today (Sunday, June 11), describing the situation as "deeply distressing".
Scotland's former first minister was arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the SNP's funding and finances.
After being questioned by detectives she was released from custody shortly before 5.30 pm.
A statement from Police Scotland read: "A 52-year-old woman who was arrested earlier today, Sunday, 11 June, 2023, as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party, has been released without charge pending further investigation."
Update on investigation into Scottish National Party funding and finances.
— Police Scotland (@PoliceScotland) June 11, 2023
More: https://t.co/TJ1GBxIPEW pic.twitter.com/aFzjtTFddb
They added that a report will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.
How did Nicola Sturgeon respond to the arrest?
In a statement shared on her Twitter account, Ms Sturgeon denied any wrongdoing had taken place.
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.
"Obviously, given the nature of this process, I cannot go into detail.
STATEMENT pic.twitter.com/MlpWJGzwi0
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) June 11, 2023
“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.
"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."
She added she intends to be back in Parliament soon after taking a "day or two to process this latest development".
Ms Sturgeon's husband Peter Murrell, who was a former SNP chief executive, had been arrested on April 5 as part of their Operation Branchform probe.
Police has been investigating for the past two years what happened to £660,000 of donations given to the SNP by independence activists for use in a future independence referendum campaign.
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