ABERDEEN LOCKDOWN: Police issue statement as reinforcements head north

Police in the north-east have issued a statement after lockdown rules were reimposed on Aberdeen.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has warned the restrictions are enforceable if required.

More than 20 bars in Aberdeen are being linked to the outbreak.

Deputy Chief Constable Will Kerr said: "It’s really important that people follow the instructions and guidance from the Scottish Government.

"To support that, we will have additional patrols in Aberdeen, where local restrictions have been reintroduced.

"Our approach to these local restrictions will reflect the consistent approach taken by Police Scotland since the outset of this pandemic, and our officers will continue to engage, educate and encourage people to comply, as we all support the public health efforts to stop the spread of the virus

"As a national service, Police Scotland is able to quickly flex capacity to support local communities across the country, and we will provide whatever additional resources are necessary to protect and support the communities affected.

"The chief constable has made it consistently clear that we all should take personal responsibility to do the right thing and remember the purpose of these measures is to aid the collective effort to stay safe, protect others and save lives by preventing the virus from spreading.

"Throughout the response to the pandemic, the majority of the public followed the law and Scottish Government advice. I realise that this situation will be frustrating for people in the affected area but it’s really important that we all continue to do so.

"Our officers will continue to explain the legislation and guidance but, for the minority who may choose to breach the regulations and risk the health of others, we will not hesitate to take enforcement action where appropriate."

Officers from the force's Flexible Response Unit have left Edinburgh to head for Aberdeen, in response to today's announcement. You can watch the video above (courtesy of Police Scotland/Twitter).