COP26 occupation raided by officers

ACTIVISTS occupying a former homelessness unit during COP26 claim police tried to force entry to the building in a 3am raid.

The Glasgow Times told last week how campaigners had taken over the Hamish Allan Centre to provide living space for people in the city for the climate summit.

Glasgow City Council had written to the Baile Hoose group to express concerns over asbestos and legionella in the building.

Early on Monday morning, occupants were woken by police officers in an adjacent section of the building.

They claim around 20 officers from Welsh police forces and the Metropolitan Police were using a battering ram to try to gain access.

Witnesses said that it was only when Police Scotland officers arrived at the scene and “calmed the situation” that “the Met and Welsh police backed off”.

A spokesperson for Police

Scotland confirmed the force attended at the building around 3am. She said: “Around 3am on November 8, officers attended at a property on Centre Street, Glasgow, following concerns for the safety and security of those using the building.

“Officers will continue to engage with those currently in the property.”

Labour MSP Mercedes Villalba criticised the move by police. She said on Twitter: “The peaceful Baile Hoose Occupation was raided last night.

“Baile Hoose is providing temporary shelter for COP26 campaigners struggling to find accommodation.

“They are providing a service to their community and have been rewarded with police harassment. “Disgraceful.”

It is understood a meeting took place yesterday between activists and Glasgow City Council about the occupation of the council-owned building.