Analysis

Fresh questions about what Nicola Sturgeon did or did not know

Peter Murrell, 58, the former SNP chief executive, is in custody and is being questioned as detectives examine the finances of Scotland's largest political party.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon waits on a lift after leaving the chamber ahead of the final vote on the Scottish Budget for 2023-24, at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh. Picture date: Tuesday February 21, 2023.
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The blue evidence tent erected outside the home of the detained former SNP chief executive is usually reserved for the most serious police investigations.

Detectives are inside the property Peter Murrell shares with former first minister Nicola Sturgeon as they examine finances of Scotland's largest political party.

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Officers are also swarming the SNP's Edinburgh headquarters in what is a hugely embarrassing moment for a party of discipline.

It is also a huge test for the new leader Humza Yousaf, who took charge last week.

It seems the hangover of a torrid time for the party is not over.

This is a probe moving at pace.

Nicola Sturgeon pictured with her husband Peter Murrell, who is SNP chief executive
Image: Nicola Sturgeon with her husband Peter Murrell

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Murrell hasn't been seen in public since he sensationally quit his senior role last month.

He was last spotted in a national newspaper at his doorstep in his pyjamas refusing to answer mounting questions from reporters.

In one of her last interviews, Ms Sturgeon told Sky News she had "not heard" whether her husband had been asked to talk to detectives.

There will, no doubt, be fresh questions about what she did or did not know.