Killer clown craze is no laughing matter Warning after first local incidents reported to police

Monklands has been caught up in the killer clown craze.

Police warned residents of a spate of incidents where louts have dressed as the circus performers to terrify locals.

The prank, which sees people wearing clown costumes to scare or intimidate members of the public, has hit various parts of Scotland over the last couple of weeks.

Last week a hoaxer admitted a “sighting” in Glasgow was faked. A Facebook page called “Killer Clowns in and around Glasgow” caused widespread panic by saying a clown had been spotted underneath a bridge.

The scare tactic has now found its way to Airdrie and Coatbridge as police have received “a number of reports of incidents across Monklands last week where the public have reported individuals dressed as clowns”.

Inspector Steven Miller, of Airdrie police, told the Advertiser: “Whilst no persons have been charged or warned in relation to this locally, any person seeking to cause distress and potential harm to anyone should be aware that action will be taken as a result.

“We have had calls from a number of people about individuals dressed as clowns and anyone else concerned by this issue should contact Airdrie or Coatbridge police on 101.”

Superintendent David Duncan added: “It is assessed that there is a current trend of similar incidents on social media, many of which have been confirmed as hoaxes and emanate from overseas.

“The reports which have been made to local police officers are being investigated and do not specifically involve threats or violence.

“However, any person seeking to cause distress and potential harm to anyone should be aware that police will take action.

“If anyone has any concerns they should report the matter to police.”