EDINBURGH – The Scottish Parliament was thrust into a state of high alert on Tuesday afternoon after a major security breach forced a complete lockdown of the Holyrood estate.
Police Scotland confirmed they are investigating the incident after a man allegedly gained unauthorised access to the parliamentary building. The breach triggered immediate security protocols, with officials instructing everyone inside to remain in their offices and lock all doors.
Lockdown and Police Response
The incident unfolded rapidly, with parliamentary authorities issuing an urgent alert. A spokesperson for the Scottish Parliament stated: "We can confirm there has been a security incident and the building is currently in lockdown. We are working with Police Scotland and would ask everyone to comply with the instructions from the police and parliamentary security staff."
Armed police and multiple response units were swiftly deployed to the scene to secure the perimeter and conduct a thorough search of the premises. The swift action was praised by witnesses, though it caused significant disruption to parliamentary business.
Eyewitness Accounts from Inside Holyrood
Those inside the building during the lockdown reported a tense atmosphere. One staff member described the moment the alert was raised: "There was an announcement over the tannoy system telling us to stay put and lock the doors. It was a very unsettling few minutes until we got more information. The police response seemed incredibly fast."
The lockdown was eventually lifted after police established there was no ongoing threat. However, the investigation into how the individual breached the world-class security measures at one of the UK's most prominent democratic institutions remains active.
Serious Questions Over Security
This event is set to spark a major review of security procedures at Holyrood. Opposition parties have already called for a full statement from the presiding officer and the Scottish Parliament Corporate Body.
A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "We were called to a report of a security breach at the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday. A man has been identified and inquiries are ongoing. There is no risk to the wider public."
The breach raises profound concerns, coming just years after a major review of security was commissioned for the building. The fact that an individual could allegedly penetrate the defences undetected will be a primary focus of the internal and police investigations.
