MORE than 500 police officers will be deployed around Scotland to help support local policing divisions in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Police Scotland will send more than 300 officers from specialist functions around Scotland to local divisions on a temporary basis from Monday, January 10.

Local forces could also benefit from support from a share of 258 probationary constables who are currently undergoing training at the Scottish Police College.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Speirs said: “We are working hard to maximise the availability of officers and staff in frontline duties to ensure that we continue to provide a highly effective policing service to our local communities."

Officers will be deployed to local divisions where additional support is needed.

The use of probationers and officers from specialist functions was successful at the start of the pandemic and during the COP26 climate conference in November last year.

Mr Speirs added: "Omicron is having a significant effect on the country and Police Scotland is included in that. The welfare of our officers and staff is paramount and has been throughout the pandemic.

“As a national service we can quickly flex resources and move people to where they are needed and respond to increased demand and high absence levels.

“By deploying these extra resources we can support local policing and keep people safe during this critical time.”