The ongoing police investigation into SNP’s finances has raised concerns among party members, with hopes for a resolution soon.
Scotland: Operation Branchform started in 2021. It looks into SNP’s handling of £600,000 in donations for independence. Complaints led to this police investigation.
Senior Nationalists want the probe to end. They believe it has hurt their party. The investigation is now in its fifth year.
What is Branchform looking at?
The SNP raised £600,000 from pro-independence supporters since 2017. Activists worried this money wasn’t in party accounts. Complaints were made, leading to the ongoing investigation.
What are the major developments?
During this time, Nicola Sturgeon was the SNP leader. Her husband, Peter Murrell, was the party’s chief executive. They have since separated. Both were arrested in 2023 but released without charges.
Murrell, who led the party for over twenty years, was later charged with embezzlement. A court order now prevents him from selling his property.
What is the issue with the campervan?
A luxury campervan is part of the investigation. Police seized a Niesmann + Bischoff motorhome from a house in Fife. This happened during a search of Sturgeon and Murrell’s home. The campervan is worth about £110,000.
Where is the investigation now?
Police Scotland has spent around £2 million on Branchform. They finished inquiries in August last year and sent a report to the Crown Office. Eleven officers are still working on the case.
What has Nicola Sturgeon said about Branchform?
Nicola Sturgeon insists she has done nothing wrong. She remains an MSP in Glasgow and shares a home with Murrell, despite their separation. She mentioned that she wishes the investigation wasn’t happening but is focused on her life.
What are the latest developments?
Scotland’s top judge, Lord Carloway, noted a possible “hold up” in the investigation. He stated he knows nothing about the delays, whether with police or the Crown Office.
Alba MSPs expressed hope for a quick resolution to the probe. They are optimistic about an outcome soon.
