FORMER SNP chief executive Peter Murrell has been re-arrested in connection with an investigation into party finances.

Murrell, 59, was taken into custody for questioning at 9.13am, more than a year after his first arrest, a statement from Police Scotland said.

Police Scotland officers searched Murrell’s home near Glasgow, which he shares with former Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon, on April 5 2023.

He was later released without charge, pending further investigation, until today’s re-arrest.

It follows a probe known as Operation Branchform into the spending of more than £600,000 in donations for independence campaigning.

Ms Sturgeon, who resigned as first minister and SNP leader in February 2023, was arrested two months after her husband. Former party treasurer Colin Beattie was also arrested.

Both Ms Sturgeon and Mr Beattie were released without charge pending further investigation.

Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie said: “This is another incredibly concerning development in this long-running investigation.

“It is essential that Police Scotland is able to proceed with this investigation without interference.”