The Ministry of State (MoS) has revealed that police are on the hunt for phone SIM cards linked to fraud claims involving the Scottish National Party (SNP). Authorities believe these SIM cards, which store records of texts and calls made, could help them piece together information regarding 'missing' funds. The ongoing investigation follows the arrest of former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, his wife and ex-SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon, as well as former SNP treasurer Colin Beattie.
Rumors circulate about Scotland's ruling party facing bankruptcy; without auditors, they stand to lose their £1 million "short money" opposition parties receive at Westminster. The police probe is focused on how money raised during 2017 and 2019 as part of a 'referendum appeal' was spent. Ms Sturgeon denies allegations that missing party funds contributed to her surprise resignation in February.
These recent revelations increase pressure on First Minister Humza Yousaf over his handling of the financial crisis within the SNP. Yousaf is scheduled to meet with Rishi Sunak for the first time since being sworn in as First Minister last month.
"Police Scotland are said to be searching for SIM cards from 'burner' mobile phones often used by individuals seeking anonymity," says an insider close to the investigation. Authorities are also scrutinizing purchases made by SNP officials such as luxury pens, designer kitchenware items, and even a fridge freezer.
Both Peter Murrell and ex-treasurer Colin Beattie were arrested and interviewed under caution before being released without charge. Despite lingering questions surrounding party finances, Deputy Leader Keir Brown described the SNP as "the most transparent party’s most successful party." He added it is "inevitable" that Ms Sturgeon will face questioning by police in upcoming weeks.
An anonymous spokesperson for Police Scotland confirmed officers search for "burner" mobile phone SIM cards and are examining various party purchases, including a fridge freezer. The force is also looking for information from the SIM cards, such as text messages and voice recordings.
Police Scotland previously confiscated a luxury motorhome outside Nicola Sturgeon's 92-year-old mother-in-law's home in Dunfermline, Fife. They continue to investigate the SNP's purchase of luxury pens, designer pots and pans, and jewelry.
Peter Murrell resigned as SNP chief executive last month after serving more than two decades in the position. He was arrested on April 5th with his shared residence with Ms Sturgeon searched by police.
Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf has admitted that he has seen a list of items that police have either seized or wanted to trace during their investigation. However, the SNP deputy leader refuses to comment on these reports. Meanwhile, Scottish Labour calls for suspension of any SNP figures associated with this inquiry until further notice.