Nicola Sturgeon arrested: Former First Minister in custody as police investigate SNP

The statement said: "A 52-year-old woman has today, Sunday, 11 June, 2023, been arrested as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

"The woman is in custody and is being questioned by Police Scotland detectives.

"A report will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

"The matter is active for the purposes of the Contempt of Court Act 1981 and the public are therefore advised to exercise caution if discussing it on social media.

"As the investigation is ongoing we are unable to comment further."

A spokesperson for Nicola Sturgeon also issued a statement on the arrest.

They said: "Nicola Sturgeon has today, Sunday 11 June, by arrangement with Police Scotland, attended an interview where she was to be arrested and questioned in relation to Operation Branchform.

"Nicola has consistently said she would co-operate with the investigation if asked and continues to do so."

Sturgeon's husband, the party's former chief executive Peter Murrell, was previously arrested as part of the probe along with ex-treasurer Colin Beattie.

Both men were subsequently released without charge pending further inquiries.

An SNP spokesperson said: "These issues are subject to a live police investigation.

"The SNP have been cooperating fully with this investigation and will continue to do so however it is not appropriate to publicly address any issues while that investigation is ongoing."

In February 2023, Nicola Sturgeon resigned as Scotland's First Minister.

Humza Yousaf won the SNP's leadership race to succeed Sturgeon.