A MAN has been charged with breach of the peace offences following protests outside a number of properties in Aberdeen.
Groups of people gathered outside four properties in the Torry, Sheddocksley and Mastrick areas of the city on Wednesday evening.
Officers attended and engaged with the groups, which later dispersed.
A 44-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with “recent protest activity” in the city.
He is due to appear in court in due course.
According to STV News, the protests were organised by Unite the Clans, formerly known as Aberdeen Against Illegal Migration.
Police said recent protests in the city have focused on “registered sex offenders and people perceived to be sex offenders”. The same has happened in Glasgow, with far-right groups organising the events to whip up anti-migrant sentiment. Innocent people have been targeted as part of the demonstrations.
Superintendent Jason Carrigan said the force is aware of “concerns” the protests can cause within the close communities of the city.
He also warned that “outing” registered sex offenders on social media or confronting them in person affects the ability of police and others to manage the risk they pose.
“Recent protests have focused on registered sex offenders and people perceived to be sex offenders,” he said.
“Registered sex offenders are managed robustly and effectively through Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements, known as Mappa.
“These arrangements provide a comprehensive response to a complex issue, using professional assessment and risk management.
“Outing registered sex offenders on social media or physically confronting them significantly affects the ability of police and partners to manage risk effectively.
“It also undermines the measures already in place to protect the public.
“It also requires additional policing resources, reducing our ability to respond quickly and effectively to other calls for assistance from local communities.”
He also stressed there is a “clear difference” between lawful protest and criminality.
“While most protests are peaceful we will not tolerate anyone who assaults an officer or damages police property, including vehicles,” he said.
“Any offending identified will be dealt with robustly and those responsible will be traced and arrested.
“Policing in Scotland has strong relationships with the public and we are grateful for the ongoing support of our communities.”
