More than 500 officers redeployed to frontline duties

Police Scotland is increasing the number of officers deployed in local policing divisions to support communities during the latest phase of the Covid pandemic.
More than 500 officers have been redeployed.More than 500 officers have been redeployed.
More than 500 officers have been redeployed.

Around 500 will be redeployed as Coronavirus continues to put a strain on emergency services.

More than 300 officers from specialist functions throughout Scotland moved to support colleagues in local policing divisions temporarily from today (January 10). At the same time, 258 probationary constables currently undergoing training at the Scottish Police College were also deployed to local policing divisions.

The use of probationers and officers from specialist functions has alsoready been successful both earlier in the pandemic and during the UN COP26 climate conference.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Speirs said that the move will help to address the continuing impact that the latest Covid-19 variant is having on the Scottish police force.

He said: “We are working hard to maximise the availability of officers and staff in frontline duties to ensure that we continue to provide a highly effective policing service to our local communities.

"Omicron is having a significant effect on the country and Police Scotland is included in that. The welfare of our officers and staff is paramount and has been throughout the pandemic.

“As a national service we can quickly flex resources and move people to where they are needed and respond to increased demand and high absence levels.

“By deploying these extra resources we can support local policing and keep people safe during this critical time.”