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Following recent incidents in Brussels, Lahore and Glasgow, Police Scotland’s Chief Superintendent Paul Main has issued a statement providing reassurance to Scottish communities of the force’s commitment to respect diversity and condemn the threat of violence and terrorism.

Ch Supt Main said: “The recent events in Brussels and Lahore, the tragic murder of Asad Shah in Glasgow and media reports around alleged links to proscribed organisations may cause some concerns amongst communities in Scotland.

“Officers from Police Scotland have met with leaders from a range of communities to underline Scotland’s united commitment to respect diversity and condemn the threat of violence and terrorism.

“Police Scotland will continue to reach out to the main mosques in Scotland to provide reassurance and support to all sections of the Muslim community. Working closely with community leaders and partners will help to allay any concerns and strengthen Scotland’s multi-faith existence.

“Police Scotland does not tolerate hatred, extremism or violence in any form and it is vitally important that this message is conveyed to all communities, regardless of faith or no faith.

“That said, we have been monitoring incidents of hate crime in Scotland since the attacks in Brussels last week and there has not been a corresponding spike in reported incidents.

“Scotland as a whole is a strong, united community that takes pride in the diversity of all faiths and beliefs practiced across the country.

“This very sentiment was recently expressed when the words “this is not who we are” were used to describe the public’s response to Mr Shah’s death.

“Crimes stemming from hatred and intolerance have no place in Scotland and our role as a police service is to ensure that all our communities are safe and feel protected.

“Be assured that reports of any hate crime, extremism or violence will be thoroughly investigated, and those responsible will be brought to justice.”

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John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.