UPDATE: Nicola Sturgeon has been released without charge
Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has been released without charge after being arrested by police investigating the finances of the Scottish National Party earlier today.
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A Police Scotland spokesman said: "A 52-year-old woman who was arrested earlier today as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party, has been released without charge pending further investigation.
"The woman was questioned by Police Scotland detectives after she was arrested at 10.09am. She was released from custody at 5.24pm.
"A report will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.
"The matter remains 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."
The former SNP leader said in a statement posted on social media: “To find myself in the situation I did today when I am certain I have committed no offence is both a shock and deeply distressing.
“I know that this ongoing investigation is difficult for people, and I am grateful that so many continue to show faith in me and appreciate that I would never do anything to harm either the SNP or the country.
“Obviously, given the nature of this process, I cannot go into detail.
“However, I do wish to say this, and to do so in the strongest possible terms. Innocence is not just a presumption I am entitled to in law.
“I know beyond doubt that I am in fact innocent of any wrongdoing.”
She also thanked people who had sent messages of support today and in recent weeks.
